Entrée: United States – Butter-Basted Smash Burger

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 8 min

Cook 8 min

Total 15 min

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80 / 20), shaped into 6 loose balls
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 slices American cheese
4 burger buns
3 tbsp (45 ml) unsalted butter
Optional: sliced onions
Optional: pickles

Instructions

1. Heat a griddle or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot. Toast buns buttered lightly in pan and set aside.  
2. Place a beef ball on the griddle and press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to form a thin patty; season with salt and pepper. Repeat with remaining balls (work in batches).  
3. Cook 1–2 minutes until edges are deeply browned, flip, and immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Add about 1/2 tbsp butter around each patty and tilt the pan to baste the patties with melted butter for 30–60 seconds.  
4. Remove patties and stack two thin patties per bun if desired. Assemble with chosen toppings and serve right away.