Indulge in a timeless classic with these Alberta Beef Smash Burgers. Makes four single burgers or two double burgers.
Equipment
1 large cast iron frying pan, or griddle
1 flat metal spatula
4 6-inch pieces of parchment paper
Ingredients
1lbregular ground beef
1tbspolive oil or cooking oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4brioche or potato burger buns
Toppings
1cupiceberg lettuce, shredded
1largetomato, sliced
1white onion, sliced
4slicesAmerican cheese
pickles
cooked bacon
burger sauce (recipe below)
Instructions
Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and gently roll each into a loose ball. Keep refrigerated until ready to cook.
Prepare all burger toppings and set aside. Slice and lightly toast the burger buns if desired.
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add oil and heat until just smoking. Place one ball of beef onto the hot surface, top with a piece of parchment, and use a metal spatula or burger press to firmly smash the patty to about ¼-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper. If space allows, repeat with a second patty.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, until browned and crisp around the edges. Flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another minute. Cover briefly if needed to help the cheese melt. Transfer to a bun and repeat with remaining patties.
Serve as single or double burgers with desired toppings. Serve immediately with fries, salad, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Burger Sauce: Mix together half a cup of mayonnaise, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp mustard, pinch of salt and pepper, 1 tsp of pickle juice and a dash or two of your favourite hot sauce. Refrigerate until ready to use.