Imagine biting into a juicy burger with a crispy, caramelized crust that shatters with every bite—all cooked in under 5 minutes. That’s the magic of Blackstone Smash Burgers.
Perfect for backyard cookouts or quick weeknight dinners, this step-by-step guide will help you craft restaurant-quality burgers at home. Whether you’re a griddle newbie or a seasoned pro, let’s fire up that griddle and get smashing!
Why Smash Burgers on a Blackstone Griddle?
The Magic of the Blackstone Griddle
So, what’s the big deal with using a Blackstone griddle for burgers? Honestly, it’s a total game-changer.
Unlike a grill where flavorful juices drip away into the flames, the Blackstone’s solid flat-top surface holds onto all that goodness. As your burger patty sears in its own juices, the super-hot surface creates that incredible, crispy, golden-brown crust we all crave. That’s the famous Maillard reaction, and it’s the secret to what makes a smash burger taste so ridiculously good.
Plus, the sheer size of it is a huge advantage. You can have your patties searing on one side, onions caramelizing in the middle, and your buns toasting in butter right alongside them. Everything gets cooked in the same space, sharing flavor and finishing at the same time.
What Makes Smash Burgers Special?
Instead of a dense burger, you start with a simple ball of ground beef and smash it thin directly on the hot griddle. This creates maximum contact, resulting in a super crispy, lacy, and deeply caramelized edge that’s packed with flavor. They cook in a flash—just a couple of minutes—and the high-fat beef ensures the inside stays unbelievably juicy.
This traditional method, which originated in vintage diners, has turned into a popular trend for a good reason. It is straightforward, uncomplicated, and provides a strong, meaty taste using only salt, pepper, and intense heat.
For those who enjoy delving into the science of cooking to achieve the ideal crust, the resources available at Serious Eats are amazing.
Blackstone Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to high heat (around 425–450°F). Lightly oil the surface.
- Butter the burger buns and toast them cut-side down on a medium-heat zone until golden. Set aside.
- Form 4 loose beef balls (about 4 oz each) without packing the meat too tightly.
- Place each beef ball on the hot griddle. Immediately smash it flat using a burger press or spatula with parchment paper. Press firmly for 10 seconds.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing. Do not press again.
- Cook for 1.5–2 minutes or until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
- Flip the patties carefully, then immediately place a slice of cheese on each one.
- Cover with a dome lid (optional) to melt the cheese. Cook for another 1–1.5 minutes.
- Assemble the burgers: Bottom bun, patty with melted cheese, optional toppings (pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato), sauce, then top bun.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy your perfect Blackstone Smash Burgers!
Video
Notes
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Smash Burger
Crank up the heat with:
- Sliced jalapeños or pickled peppers.
- Pepper jack cheese for creamy spice.
- Sriracha mayo (mix 2 tbsp mayo with 1 tsp sriracha).
Bacon Cheeseburger Deluxe
Go all-in with:
- Crispy bacon strips (cook on griddle first).
- A fried egg for richness (crack on medium heat, cook 2-3 min).
- Sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
Veggie Smash Burger
For plant-based eaters:
- Use Beyond Meat or Impossible Foods patties.
- Smash and cook the same way (2-3 min per side).
- Add avocado and sprouts for freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best beef for smash burgers?
Ground chuck with 80% meat and 20% fat is the best choice—it keeps the patties moist and tasty.
How do I prevent burgers from sticking to the griddle?
Regularly add seasoning to your griddle and apply a small amount of oil or butter before you cook.
What’s the best beef for smash bCan I make smash burgers without a Blackstone?urgers?
Absolutely, a cast-iron skillet can work just fine, but the Blackstone offers a bigger cooking area and better heat management.
How do I clean my Blackstone after cooking?
While it’s still hot, use a griddle scraper to remove debris, then wipe it down with paper towels soaked in oil, and make sure to keep it in a dry spot.
What’s the secret to a crispy burger crust?
Smash the patties soon after placing them on the griddle (within 30 seconds), cook over high heat, and don’t turn them too early.
Conclusion
Mastering Blackstone Smash Burgers is your shortcut to crispy, juicy flavor in under 10 minutes. This guide gives you a foolproof recipe, expert tips, and fun twists to wow any crowd. Fire up your Blackstone, grab some 80/20 beef, and start smashing! We’d love to see your creations—share your burger pics on X or Instagram and tag us. Got a favorite topping or hack? Drop it in the comments and join the smash burger revolution!