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Crispy Loaded Smash Burger Recipe with Tangy Comeback Sauce

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A quick and easy smash burger recipe featuring crispy edges, melty cheese, fresh toppings, and a tangy comeback sauce that elevates the flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or clarified butter
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste (for sauce)
  • 4 soft burger buns, lightly toasted (brioche or potato buns)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1 medium tomato, sliced
  • Pickles, sliced thin (optional)
  • Thinly sliced red onion (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the comeback sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Cover and refrigerate while prepping burgers.
  2. Prepare burger toppings: Slice tomatoes, shred iceberg lettuce, slice pickles and red onion if using. Toast buns lightly until golden. Set aside.
  3. Form beef balls: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 115 g each). Roll loosely into balls. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat skillet: Place cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Heat until smoking hot but not burning.
  5. Smash and sear patties: Place one beef ball in skillet and press down firmly with spatula or burger press to about ¼ inch thick. Hold pressure for 10 seconds. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy. Flip carefully.
  6. Add cheese: After flipping, top with a slice of cheddar. Cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patty is cooked through but juicy.
  7. Assemble burger: Spread a tablespoon of comeback sauce on bottom bun, add patty with cheese, then layer lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onion. Top with other bun half.
  8. Serve immediately for best crispiness.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to maintain high heat and crispiness. Flip patties only once and avoid pressing after flipping to keep juices. The comeback sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For vegetarian, substitute beef patties with smashed black bean patties.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, crispy burger, comeback sauce, quick dinner, loaded burger, homemade burger

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-loaded-smash-burger-recipe-with-tangy-comeback-sauce-easy-and-perfect/