Double Cheesy Smash Burger with Special Sauce: A Juicy, Flavor-Packed Classic
Craving a burger that’s crispy, cheesy, and dripping with flavor? Look no further than this Double Cheesy Smash Burger with Special Sauce! This diner-style smash burger features two thin, crispy-edged beef patties, melty cheese, and a tangy, onion-infused special sauce that takes it to the next level. Served on buttery, toasted buns, it’s the ultimate comfort food for burger lovers. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard cookouts, or satisfying those fast-food cravings at home. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you likely already have. Fire up your skillet and get ready to enjoy a burger that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: From skillet to plate in 20 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
- Bold Flavors: Crispy patties, melty cheese, and a tangy special sauce create a perfect bite.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ground beef and pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or tweak the sauce to suit your taste.
- Restaurant Quality: Delivers diner-style smash burgers without the drive-thru.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering smash burgers:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar, for a sharper flavor)
- 2 soft burger buns (potato, brioche, or sesame), split
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for toasting buns)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- 1 Tbsp ketchup
- 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped dill pickles (or pickle relish)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see prep note below)
For Caramelized Onions (if not pre-made):
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or butter
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed:
- Large cast-iron skillet or griddle
- Heavy spatula or burger press
- Small mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Butter knife
- Cutting board and knife
- Parchment paper (optional, for smashing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create smash burgers that are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor:
- Prepare the Caramelized Onions (if needed)
If you don’t have pre-made caramelized onions, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until soft, golden, and caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly. (Pro tip: Make a batch ahead and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.) - Make the Special Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, chopped pickles, white vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth. Finely chop the caramelized onions (if not already fine) and mix them into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, allowing the flavors to meld. - Prepare the Patties
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Loosely roll each portion into a ball—don’t pack tightly, as this keeps the patties tender. Set aside on a plate. Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it’s smoking hot (about 5 minutes). A hot surface is key for that crispy, caramelized crust. - Toast the Buns
While the skillet heats, spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides of the burger buns. Place them cut-side down in the skillet (or a separate pan) over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, until golden and toasty. Set aside on a plate. - Smash and Cook the Patties
Place 2 beef balls on the hot skillet, leaving space between them. Immediately smash each ball flat with a heavy spatula or burger press, aiming for a thin patty about 4–5 inches wide. (Place parchment paper between the spatula and beef to prevent sticking, if desired.) Season the tops with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes, until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patties, place a slice of cheese on each, and cook for 1–2 minutes more, until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through (about 160°F/71°C for medium). - Assemble the Burgers
Spread a generous layer of special sauce on the bottom and top halves of each toasted bun. Stack two cheesy patties on each bottom bun for that double-decker goodness. Add extra sauce on top of the patties if you’re feeling indulgent. Cap with the top bun and press lightly to hold it all together. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve the burgers immediately while hot and melty, paired with crispy fries, a side salad, or a cold drink like soda or beer. Dig in and savor the crispy, cheesy, saucy perfection!
Nutritional Information (Per Burger)
- Calories: Approximately 700–800 kcal (based on 2 servings)
- Protein: ~45g
- Fat: ~50g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands, bun type, or cheese choice. For precise calculations, use a nutrition app with your specific ingredients.
Tips for Success
- Beef Blend: An 80/20 (lean-to-fat) ground beef ensures juicy, flavorful patties. Avoid leaner blends like 90/10, which can dry out.
- Hot Skillet: A screaming-hot skillet is crucial for the signature crispy crust. Test by flicking a drop of water—if it sizzles instantly, it’s ready.
- Smashing Technique: Smash the patties within the first 30 seconds of cooking to maximize crust formation. Press firmly but don’t squash them paper-thin.
- Caramelized Onions: Make these in advance to save time. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before mixing into the sauce.
- Cheese Choice: American cheese melts smoothly for that classic diner vibe, but cheddar adds a sharper flavor. Use what you love!
Variations to Try
- Topping Boost: Add lettuce, tomato slices, or pickles for crunch and freshness. Bacon strips make it extra indulgent.
- Spicy Kick: Mix 1/2 tsp hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne into the special sauce, or add sliced jalapeños to the burgers.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or Swiss for a nutty flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the bun and serve the patties in lettuce wraps or over a bed of greens with extra sauce.
- Veggie Version: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese, and swap mayo for a vegan alternative in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These smash burgers are a meal on their own, but here are some ideas to round out the experience:
- Serve with crispy French fries, sweet potato tots, or onion rings for a classic diner vibe.
- Pair with a cold cola, craft beer, or a milkshake for a nostalgic touch.
- Offer a side of coleslaw or a pickle spear to balance the richness.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep special sauce in a separate airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side. Store buns separately to avoid sogginess.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked patties (without cheese) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Special sauce doesn’t freeze well due to the mayo, so make fresh.
- Reheating Tip: Reheat patties in a skillet or oven (350°F for 5–7 minutes) to restore crispiness. Add fresh cheese when reheating for that melty effect.
Budget-Friendly Breakdown
This recipe is wallet-friendly, with ground beef (~$5–$6 for 1 lb), cheese (~$2 for 4 slices), and buns (~$2 for 4) keeping costs low. Pantry staples like mayo, ketchup, and pickles (~$2–$3) and an onion (~$0.50) bring the total to ~$11–$15 for 2 servings, or about $5.50–$7.50 per burger. Buy beef in bulk or use store-brand ingredients to save more!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes! Ground chuck or brisket blends work well for smash burgers. Stick to 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
Use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet or a flat griddle. Ensure it’s very hot to achieve the crispy crust.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare the special sauce up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge. Stir well before using.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps, and ensure pickles and condiments are gluten-free (most are, but check labels).
A Burger Worth Craving
This Double Cheesy Smash Burger with Special Sauce is the ultimate indulgence—crispy, juicy, and packed with diner-style flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner, a weekend BBQ, or just treating yourself, these burgers deliver big on taste with minimal effort. The caramelized onion-infused special sauce adds a gourmet touch that’s surprisingly simple to make. So heat up your skillet, grab your spatula, and get ready to sink your teeth into a burger that’s pure comfort food perfection!
Tried this recipe? Share your favorite burger toppings or sauce tweaks in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
