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Crispy Smash Burger Recipe on Pretzel Buns Easy Perfect American Cheese

crispy smash burger - featured image

A quick and easy crispy smash burger with American cheese on pretzel buns, featuring a perfectly caramelized crust and melty cheese for a deliciously addictive meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 4 pretzel buns
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or canola oil
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter
  • Optional toppings: thinly sliced red onions, pickles, lettuce or tomato slices, mustard or ketchup

Instructions

  1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, about 4 ounces (115 g) each. Gently roll each into a loose ball without packing tightly and set aside.
  2. Preheat a cast iron skillet or heavy-duty griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 3 minutes.
  3. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the pretzel buns. Toast them butter-side down on a separate pan or griddle over medium heat until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.
  4. Place each beef ball onto the hot skillet. Immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to flatten into thin patties about 1/4 inch thick. Hold pressure for 10 seconds to form a crispy crust.
  5. Season the patties with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crisp.
  6. Flip each patty carefully and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
  7. Assemble the burgers by placing each cheesy patty on the toasted pretzel buns. Add optional toppings as desired and cap with the top bun.
  8. Serve immediately while hot, crispy, and melty.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. Use a hot pan for the best crust. Add cheese immediately after flipping the patties. Toast buns with butter to prevent sogginess and add flavor. Avoid flipping patties too early or too often to develop a good crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, crispy burger, pretzel buns, American cheese, quick burger recipe, easy dinner, comfort food