Smash Burger Bowl (Printable)

Crispy smashed beef patties over fresh greens with all the classic fixings

# What You Need:

→ Beef Patties

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
02 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Vegetables & Greens

04 - 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, iceberg, spinach)
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1 cup dill pickles, sliced
08 - 1 avocado, sliced

→ Toppings

09 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (optional)

→ Smash Sauce

11 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
12 - 2 tbsp ketchup
13 - 1 tbsp yellow mustard
14 - 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
15 - 1 tsp white vinegar
16 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
17 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
02 - Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and allow it to get thoroughly hot.
03 - Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions and roll into balls. Season each ball generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
04 - Place beef balls onto the hot skillet. Press each ball down firmly with a heavy spatula to create thin, smashed patties. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until cooked through. Remove from heat.
05 - Distribute mixed salad greens evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, dill pickles, and sliced avocado over the greens.
06 - Place the cooked smash burger patties on top of each salad. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the patties while they're still warm.
07 - Drizzle the prepared smash sauce generously over each bowl. Top with crispy fried onions if desired. Serve immediately while patties are still warm.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • You get that irresistible smashed beef crust in every bite without the post-burger slump
  • The sauce-to-crunch ratio is completely in your control
  • Its the kind of dinner that feels indulgent while actually being pretty wholesome
02 -
  • A truly hot pan is what creates those crispy edges, so dont rush the preheat
  • Resist the urge to move the patties while theyre searing or youll lose the crust
  • The sauce needs at least 10 minutes to develop its full flavor
03 -
  • Cast iron or a heavy skillet conducts heat best for maximum crust
  • Let the sauce rest in the fridge while you cook for deeper flavor
  • Dry your beef thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning for better browning

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