Name: Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend); Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar); 4 burger buns, soft and toasted; 1–2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns); Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, tomato slices, onion slices; For the creamy burger sauce:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp pickle juice or lemon juice

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Smash burgers with creamy burger sauce are everything I want in a satisfying, diner-style burger—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and layered with melty cheese and a tangy, savory sauce that pulls it all together. This recipe is easy, fast, and made with everyday ingredients, but the flavor is anything but ordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s all about bold, juicy flavor with minimal effort. The high-heat smash technique gives the patties an amazing crust, while the creamy sauce adds a rich, zesty contrast. Everything cooks quickly, and the customization possibilities are endless. Whether I’m throwing them together for a casual dinner or stacking them high for a weekend treat, these burgers always satisfy. Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of in3gredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the burgers:

Ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
Salt and pepper
American cheese slices (or cheddar, if preferred)
Burger buns (soft, toasted)
Butter (for toasting buns)
Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, tomato, onion

For the creamy burger sauce:

Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Black pepper
A dash of pickle juice or lemon juice (for tang)

Directions

I mix the creamy burger sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. I refrigerate it until ready to use.
I divide the ground beef into loose balls (about 2–3 oz each) without packing them too tightly.
I heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it’s smoking hot.
I place each beef ball onto the hot pan and press it down firmly using a spatula or burger press to create a thin patty.
I season with salt and pepper and cook for about 2 minutes, until the edges are crispy and browned.
I flip the patties, top with cheese, and cook for another minute or so until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
I toast the buns in butter until golden, then assemble the burgers: bottom bun, sauce, burger patty, toppings, more sauce, top bun.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 burgers.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I make it spicy by adding a bit of hot sauce or sriracha to the burger sauce.
For a lighter version, I use ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute.
I swap in spicy mustard or a touch of horseradish for a tangy kick.
I serve them with sweet pickles or caramelized onions when I want a little extra contrast.

storage/reheating

I store cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly.
The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in a sealed container and works great on sandwiches or wraps too. Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce

FAQs

What makes a smash burger different?

Smash burgers are pressed flat onto a hot surface, which creates a crisp, caramelized crust and intensifies the flavor in every bite.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, I’ve made them with ground turkey, chicken, and plant-based options. I just adjust cooking times as needed.

Do I need a cast iron pan?

Cast iron works best for the crust, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do if preheated properly.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make it a day or two ahead—it only gets better as the flavors blend.

What’s the best bun for these?

I prefer soft potato buns or brioche buns. They toast beautifully and don’t overpower the burger.

Conclusion

Smash burgers with creamy burger sauce are my favorite way to turn a simple dinner into something memorable. They’re fast, flavorful, and fun to make—and once I get the hang of smashing those patties, I never go back to regular burgers. With that creamy, zesty sauce and perfectly crispy edges, every bite is seriously satisfying.