Description
Enjoy a flavorful, juicy Smash Burger with crispy edges and melted plant-based cheese. This easy-to-make recipe combines simple, fresh ingredients with bold flavors for a satisfying homemade meal. Perfect for any occasion, the Smash Burger offers a delicious plant-forward twist with customizable options to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Patties
- 1 lb freshly ground beef with good fat ratio
- 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp natural gelling agent
Toppings and Buns
- 4 soft burger buns, lightly toasted
- 4 slices plant-based cheese
- Thinly sliced onion
- Pickles slices
- Plant-based mayonnaise (natural)
- Apple cider vinegar, a splash
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Divide the ground beef into small, equal portions of about 3 to 4 ounces. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball without compacting the meat to maintain tenderness.
- Heat the Cooking Surface: Preheat a flat griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot to ensure a perfect sear.
- Smash the Patties: Place each beef ball on the hot surface and immediately press down firmly with a spatula or flat press. Smash to about 1/4 inch thickness to create crispy edges and keep the center juicy.
- Season and Cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously on the patties while cooking. Let them sear without flipping for about 2 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
- Add Plant-Based Cheese: Carefully flip the patties, then place a slice of plant-based cheese on each one while still hot. Cover the pan briefly to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
- Toast the Buns: In the same skillet or a separate pan, toast the burger buns until golden brown for added texture and warmth.
- Assemble the Burger: Spread plant-based mayonnaise (natural) on the buns, add the cheesy patties, then top with thinly sliced onions, pickles, and a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Close the burger and press lightly to hold everything together.
Notes
- Use freshly ground beef with a higher fat content for juicier patties.
- Press patties firmly but quickly to retain juices and achieve crispy edges.
- Ensure the skillet or griddle is very hot before cooking for best searing results.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain pan heat.
- Let cooked patties rest briefly off the heat before assembling to keep them tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Smash Burger, plant-based cheese, juicy burger, crispy edges, easy burger recipe