Name: Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 preferred; ¼ cup salted butter melted; 4 hamburger buns; 2 tablespoons seasoning salt; 2 tablespoons garlic powder; 2 tablespoons onion powder; 1 tablespoon ground black pepper; 8 slices cheese; sliced tomatoes for serving; sliced red onions for serving; shredded lettuce for serving; dill pickles for serving

Jump to Recipe·5 from 29 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for your new go-to burger, let these Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet sweep you off your feet. Picture juicy, flavor-packed patties pressed thin and seared in a sizzling-hot skillet, then piled high on buttery toasted buns with all your favorite fixings. This technique delivers next-level caramelization with an irresistible crust that’ll make every bite unforgettable. In just 35 minutes, you’ll create a burger-night experience that tastes like it’s straight from a classic diner—only better, because you made it in your own kitchen!

Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet rely on straightforward, honest ingredients. Each plays a starring role, from the rich beef to the savory seasonings and vibrant toppings, ensuring every layer brings something wonderful to the table.

Ground Beef (2 pounds, 80/20 preferred): The secret behind a succulently juicy burger is meat with enough fat to stay tender and flavorful—80/20 is the perfect balance.
Salted Butter (¼ cup, melted): Buttering the buns amps up their flavor and ensures a beautiful golden toast you can’t resist.
Hamburger Buns (4): Fluffy on the inside and sturdy enough to hold double patties and all the toppings—don’t skimp on the bun!
Seasoning Salt (2 tablespoons): Adds that signature depth and mouthwatering savory punch to each patty.
Garlic Powder (2 tablespoons): Infuses the burgers with mild garlicky warmth without overpowering the beef.
Onion Powder (2 tablespoons): Lends sweet, mellow onion flavor that melds perfectly with the beef and cheese.
Ground Black Pepper (1 tablespoon): Freshly ground for a gentle spicy kick—big flavor, minimal effort.
Cheese Slices (8): Melty, gooey cheese turns these burgers into pure decadence—American or cheddar both shine.
Sliced Tomatoes: For a burst of juicy brightness that balances out the rich burger.
Sliced Red Onions: Adds a pop of color and zesty crunch to every bite.
Shredded Lettuce: Crisp, refreshing, and the perfect contrast to the hot, melty burgers.
Dill Pickles: Tangy-sour slices that bring everything together and cut through the richness.

How to Make Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet

Step 1: Shape and Chill the Patties

Divide your ground beef into 8 equal portions, gently rolling them into balls with as little handling as possible—this keeps the patties ultra tender. Pop the beef balls onto a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This quick chill helps them stay together during smashing and ensures that delectable crust forms in your cast iron skillet.

Step 2: Prep Parchment and Buns

Cut a few sheets of parchment paper into 5–6 inch squares; these will help you smash your burgers evenly and keep them from sticking. Next, generously slather your hamburger buns with melted butter. Toast the buns cut side down in the skillet or on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, until they’re beautifully golden and ready for those hot patties.

Step 3: Get That Skillet Screaming Hot

Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a thin slick of oil to prevent sticking. When the pan is hot—think a drop of water sizzles and skitters—you’re ready to deliver big flavor. Working in batches, add a beef ball to the skillet, top with parchment, and use a sturdy spatula (even better with a meat press or mallet) to smash it thin. Peel off the parchment and season with a sprinkle of seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for intense flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Sear and Flip

Let the patties cook, undisturbed, for 2 to 4 minutes. The magic happens as the juices surface and the bottom turns caramelized and crisp. Flip each patty—scraping up all those tasty browned bits—and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes until your desired doneness. The less you fuss, the better the crust!

Step 5: Add Cheese Perfection

Once the patties are done, immediately crown each with a slice of cheese. As the burgers rest, the cheese will melt beautifully over the hot patties. Double-stacking your Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet with a gooey cheese blanket is non-negotiable for serious burger bliss.

Step 6: Build Your Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet

Transfer your burgers to the toasted buns and pile on all your favorite toppings—tomato slices, crisp shredded lettuce, red onion, and tart pickles. Every smash burger is now ready for its close-up (and for devouring)!

How to Serve Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet

Garnishes

The true joy of Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet comes from the toppings. Go classic with crispy iceberg lettuce, ripe tomato coins, bracing red onion, and a few dill pickle chips. Don’t forget a swoosh of your favorite sauces—think tangy burger sauce, spicy mustard, or creamy mayo.

Side Dishes

Pair these burgers with golden fries, crispy onion rings, or a big bowl of coleslaw. For a lighter meal, a green salad or roasted sweet potato wedges keep things fresh while letting the burger shine. Anything crunchy and slightly salty will be right at home next to these beauties.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform burger night by serving your Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet slider-style for parties, or stack everything atop a platter for a build-your-own bar. Or, offer a toppings board with all the fixings so everyone can build their perfect burger—kids and grown-ups alike will love customizing!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover patties snugly in foil or pop them into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days—they’ll keep their flavor and moisture for delicious future lunches or dinners.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, cooked Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet patties freeze beautifully. Arrange cooled patties between sheets of parchment in a freezer bag or container, and freeze for up to 4 months. Just thaw and reheat whenever the craving hits!

Reheating

Re-warm patties gently in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes per side, or zap them on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds. Place under a broiler for a quick melt if adding more cheese. Give the buns a quick toast for that just-made taste.

FAQs

How do you get the best crust on Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet?

The secret is a blazing-hot skillet and minimal patty-handling. Chill your beef balls first, smash them thin, and let them sear until juices pool on top before flipping—no moving or pressing again after the initial smash.

Can I use a regular skillet if I don’t have cast iron?

Absolutely! While Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet brings unbeatable heat and caramelization, any heavy-bottomed skillet will work. Just preheat thoroughly and add a little oil to avoid sticking.

Which cheese melts best for smash burgers?

American cheese is classic and wonderfully gooey, but cheddar or Colby Jack are also delicious. The key is adding the cheese as soon as the patties come off the heat—they’ll melt perfectly from the residual warmth.

Why shouldn’t I mix the seasoning into the meat?

Mixing seasoning into the beef can overwork it and give you a dense, tough burger. That’s why, for the best texture, simply sprinkle the seasonings on while cooking each patty—tender and juicy every time.

Can I prep these ahead for a crowd?

Definitely! Shape your patties ahead and keep them chilled until you’re ready to cook. You can even toast buns in advance and set out a toppings bar for effortless assembly right before serving.

Final Thoughts

Few things beat the pure satisfaction of biting into homemade Smash Burgers In Cast Iron Skillet. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating your family, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s worth every sizzle and smash. Don’t wait—your new burger obsession is just one skillet away!