Black Stone Smash Burgers are a juicy, crispy-edged twist on the classic cheeseburger, perfect for outdoor griddles. These burgers are known for their deeply caramelized crust and fast cook time, delivering mouthwatering flavor in every bite. Ideal for casual backyard gatherings or a quick family meal, this recipe brings steakhouse-style burgers straight to your grill.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 4 slices American cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional toppings: pickles, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard, mayo

Directions

1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat.
2. Divide ground beef into four 4-ounce balls without over-handling.
3. Once hot, add a bit of butter to the griddle and spread it out.
4. Place beef balls onto the griddle and immediately smash them flat using a spatula or burger press (about ¼ inch thick).
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Let the patties cook without moving them for 2–3 minutes until edges are crispy and browned.
7. Flip the patties and immediately add cheese slices on top. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
8. While burgers finish, toast buns face-down on the griddle with a bit of butter until golden.
9. Assemble burgers with your desired toppings and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 burger)

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: ~28g
• Fat: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~750mg

The Origins and Popularity of Smash Burgers

Smash burgers have gained tremendous popularity over the past decade, especially among burger enthusiasts who appreciate the unique cooking technique and flavor profile. The method involves taking loosely packed balls of ground beef and pressing them down forcefully on a hot flat-top griddle or skillet. This creates an ultra-thin patty with a large surface area that crisps up beautifully due to the Maillard reaction — the chemical process responsible for browning and developing complex flavors in cooked meat. The result is a burger with a crunchy, caramelized crust and a juicy interior that contrasts with the thicker, juicier patties of traditional grilled burgers. Originating from diners and fast-casual restaurants, smash burgers have transitioned into a beloved home cooking style, largely thanks to the rise of outdoor griddles like the Blackstone.

Why Use a Blackstone Griddle?

The Blackstone griddle has become almost synonymous with smash burgers because of its even heat distribution and large cooking surface, which allow you to prepare multiple burgers simultaneously while achieving that signature sear. The flat, open surface helps render fat quickly and encourages browning across the entire patty. Additionally, the Blackstone’s temperature control ensures consistent cooking, so you don’t have to worry about undercooked centers or overdone edges. It also allows you to toast buns right on the same surface, infusing them with buttery, toasty flavors that complement the meat perfectly. For those who love outdoor cooking or want to bring the diner experience home, the Blackstone griddle is an ideal tool for smash burgers.

Choosing the Right Beef for Smash Burgers

Selecting the right beef blend is crucial for making the perfect smash burger. A common choice is an 80/20 ratio of lean meat to fat. The fat content is important because it melts during cooking, keeping the patty juicy despite its thinness and high heat exposure. Too lean a grind will dry out quickly and lack flavor, while too much fat can cause excessive flare-ups and greasy patties. Some burger aficionados mix different cuts like chuck and brisket to achieve a deeper beef flavor. Freshly ground beef is preferable to pre-packaged patties for the best texture and taste. Because smash burgers cook quickly, the beef quality directly impacts the overall flavor experience.

The Importance of Technique: Smashing and Cooking Time

The smashing technique itself is what sets this style apart. Applying firm, even pressure with a sturdy spatula or burger press immediately after placing the meat on the griddle maximizes contact with the hot surface. This instant sear locks in juices and creates a crisp crust, often described as “buttery” and “crunchy” by fans of the style. The cooking time is very short—typically just a few minutes per side—to avoid overcooking. The patty’s thinness means it will reach medium or medium-well quickly, so timing and heat control are essential to keep the burger tender. Seasoning simply with salt and pepper allows the beef’s natural flavor to shine through the caramelized crust.

Cheese and Toppings: Elevating the Smash Burger Experience

Cheese is an indispensable element in smash burgers, with American cheese being the traditional choice for its meltability and mild flavor that complements rather than overpowers the beef. The cheese is added right after flipping the patty, giving it time to melt perfectly while the second side cooks. Beyond cheese, toppings should balance texture and flavor without overwhelming the crispy, beefy patty. Classic options like pickles add acidity, lettuce and tomato bring freshness, and condiments such as ketchup, mustard, or mayo provide creaminess and tang. Onions, either raw, grilled, or diced finely, contribute a subtle sweetness and crunch. The key is layering flavors thoughtfully to enhance the burger’s natural richness.

Buns Matter: The Role of the Brioche Bun

The choice of bun can make or break a smash burger. Brioche buns are widely favored for their soft, slightly sweet, and buttery texture, which complements the savory, crispy patty perfectly. Toasting the bun on the griddle with butter adds an additional layer of flavor and prevents it from becoming soggy when assembled. The bun needs to be sturdy enough to hold the patty and toppings but tender enough to bite through easily. Some prefer potato buns or classic sesame seed buns, but brioche remains a top choice for balancing softness with a rich, buttery taste.

Why Smash Burgers Are Perfect for Outdoor Cooking

Smash burgers are particularly well-suited for outdoor cooking setups because of the high heat and flat cooking surface required. Outdoor griddles like the Blackstone provide ample space to cook multiple patties simultaneously, making it easy to feed a crowd. The open-air environment also helps manage the smoke and splatter produced during the searing process. Cooking outside encourages social gatherings, and the quick cook time means guests don’t have to wait long for fresh, hot burgers. The griddle’s versatility allows you to prepare all parts of the meal—from patties to buns and even side items like onions or mushrooms—on the same surface.

Health Considerations and Nutrition

While smash burgers are undeniably delicious, they can be higher in calories and fat than some other burger styles due to the fat content in the beef and the use of butter for cooking and toasting. However, because the patties are thin, the portion size is generally smaller than thick burgers, which can help control calorie intake. Opting for leaner beef blends or trimming excess fat can reduce calories while maintaining flavor. Adding fresh vegetable toppings increases fiber and nutrient intake. Moderation is key; enjoying smash burgers occasionally as part of a balanced diet can satisfy cravings without overindulgence.

Variations and Customizations

The smash burger formula is flexible and lends itself to many variations. Some like to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss for unique flavor profiles. Adding bacon or sautéed mushrooms can create a richer burger experience. Spice lovers may incorporate jalapeños or spicy mayo for heat. For a healthier twist, whole wheat or gluten-free buns can be used. Veggie toppings can be customized seasonally, offering a fresh and vibrant contrast. Some cooks even add a fried egg on top for extra richness. The simplicity of the base recipe allows creativity without losing the core characteristics of a smash burger.

Conclusion

Black Stone Smash Burgers offer an unbeatable combination of crispy edges, juicy centers, and robust beef flavor that has captivated burger fans everywhere. The secret lies in the smashing technique and cooking on a high-heat flat surface like a Blackstone griddle, which delivers the signature crust and quick cook time. Using quality beef, simple seasoning, and classic toppings ensures the burger remains the star of the meal. Whether for a casual family dinner or an outdoor cookout, smash burgers are an accessible yet impressive way to enjoy a gourmet-style burger at home. Their versatility invites endless customization while remaining grounded in a straightforward, satisfying cooking method. For anyone looking to elevate their burger game, mastering the smash burger is a rewarding and delicious pursuit.