If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger with a mouthwatering secret sauce, this Smashing Patty recipe is for you. Perfectly crispy patties paired with a creamy, tangy “confidential” sauce take this burger to the next level. Ideal for a casual dinner or a weekend cookout, this recipe delivers restaurant-style results right at home.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Confidential Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Additional Ingredients
- 4 burger buns (toasted)
- 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar)
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Confidential Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Mix until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the patties.
Step 2: Prepare the Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll them into loose balls.
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
- Place one ball of beef onto the skillet, then use a spatula to press it down firmly into a thin patty. Hold the spatula for 10-15 seconds for a good sear.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patty, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Burgers
- Spread the confidential sauce generously on the top and bottom halves of the toasted buns.
- Place the lettuce and tomato on the bottom bun.
- Add the cooked patty, followed by pickles and the top bun.
Step 4: Serve
Serve hot with your favorite sides like fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Notes
- Press It Right: Use a sturdy metal spatula for smashing the patties to ensure they cook evenly and develop crispy edges.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Keep the ground beef loosely packed for tender, juicy patties.
- Toasting Buns: Lightly butter the buns before toasting for extra flavor.
- Custom Toppings: Experiment with toppings like sautéed onions, bacon, or jalapeños for added variety.
Variations
- Spicy Smashing Patty: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the confidential sauce for a spicy kick.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the buns with lettuce wraps for a keto-friendly burger.
- Chicken or Turkey Patty: Use ground chicken or turkey as a leaner alternative. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef patties with plant-based patties and use a vegan mayo for the sauce.
Keto Version
- Buns: Swap regular buns with keto-friendly buns or use large lettuce leaves.
- Sauce Adjustments: Ensure the ketchup and pickle relish are sugar-free.
- Side Ideas: Pair with a side of roasted cauliflower or zucchini fries.
Low-Carb Version
- Replace buns with cloud bread or portobello mushroom caps.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why smash the patties?
Smashing the patties ensures a crispy crust and maximizes the beef’s caramelized flavor.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What’s the best beef for smashing patties?
Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is ideal for juicy and flavorful patties.
Can I freeze leftover patties?
Absolutely. Cooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave for best results.
The Smashing Patty with Confidential Sauce is a game-changer for burger lovers. The crispy beef, gooey cheese, and creamy secret sauce create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it today and elevate your burger game to pro level!
