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Crispy Cast Iron Smash Burger Recipe Easy Perfect Crust at Home

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A quick and easy smash burger recipe that creates a crispy, golden-brown crust with a juicy center using a cast iron skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend), fresh and cold
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • 4 soft burger buns (potato or brioche recommended)
  • 4 slices American cheese (or substitute sharp cheddar, pepper jack, blue cheese, or Swiss)
  • Unsalted butter, softened (for toasting buns)
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, thinly sliced red onion, burger sauce (mayo, ketchup, hot sauce mix)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your cast iron skillet on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot.
  2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls (about 4 ounces/113g each), handling gently.
  3. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast them in the skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden. Set aside.
  4. Lightly season each beef ball with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper just before cooking.
  5. Place one beef ball in the hot skillet and immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to flatten to about 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness. Hold pressure for 10 seconds to set the crust.
  6. Cook the patty undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned and crispy and juices bubble on top.
  7. Flip the patty carefully, place a slice of American cheese on top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patty is cooked through.
  8. Place the cooked patty on the toasted bun bottom, add your favorite toppings, then cap with the bun top.
  9. Repeat the process for remaining patties, wiping the skillet if burnt bits accumulate.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for best fat content and crust. Press firmly to create a crispy crust. Keep skillet hot and avoid flipping patties multiple times. Toast buns in butter for extra flavor. For low-carb or gluten-free diets, substitute buns with lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns. Cheese can be swapped for vegan or avocado slices for dairy-free options. Reheat leftovers gently in skillet to maintain crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, cast iron skillet, crispy burger, easy burger recipe, quick dinner, 80/20 ground beef, burger crust

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/crispy-cast-iron-smash-burger-recipe-easy-perfect-crust-at-home/