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Quick 20-Minute No-Marinate Smash Burgers

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A fast and easy smash burger recipe that requires no marinating, perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy patties with crispy edges and simple ingredients deliver diner-quality flavor in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tsp kosher or sea salt
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil
  • 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar, pepper jack)
  • 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayo

Instructions

  1. Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until smoking hot.
  2. In a mixing bowl, gently break up the ground beef and season with salt and black pepper. Mix lightly.
  3. Divide the meat into four equal portions and loosely shape into balls.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet and swirl to coat evenly.
  5. Place each beef ball onto the hot skillet and immediately press down firmly with a spatula to flatten into a thin patty about ¼ inch thick. Hold pressure for 10 seconds.
  6. Cook patties undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
  7. Flip the patties carefully and add a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts.
  8. Toast the buns cut-side down on the skillet for 30-60 seconds until lightly toasted.
  9. Assemble the burgers by placing patties on buns and adding your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure skillet is very hot before cooking to get a crispy crust. Use a sturdy spatula for smashing. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. If patties stick, wait a few more seconds before flipping. Toast buns while cheese melts to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, quick burgers, no marinate burgers, easy dinner, weeknight meal, ground beef recipe, crispy burgers

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/quick-20-minute-no-marinate-smash-burgers-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-busy-weeknights/