How To Make the Best Blackstone Smash Burgers! Insiders Guide

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly cooked smash burger. And let’s be honest, if you haven’t made smash burgers on a Blackstone griddle, do you even own a Blackstone Griddle?

The crispy edges, the juicy interior, the layers of flavor – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that can make any meal memorable.

But have you ever wondered how to recreate this magic at home? The secret lies in the Blackstone griddle.

A smash burger is not just a burger; it’s a culinary experience that has taken the food world by storm.

Originating from the Midwest, this burger style has gained popularity for its thin, crispy edges and juicy center, achieved by smashing the beef patty onto a hot griddle. The result is a burger that’s flavorful, satisfying, and unlike any other.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the art of making the perfect smash burger right in your kitchen using a Blackstone griddle.

A griddle is the secret weapon of many home cooks and professional chefs alike, and it’s about to become yours too.

So, whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner in the kitchen, get ready to elevate your burger game to new heights. Let’s dive in!

Why Use a Blackstone Griddle For Smash Burgers?

When it comes to making the perfect smash burger, the Blackstone griddle is a game-changer.

This flat-top cooking surface offers several benefits that make it the ideal tool for creating delicious, restaurant-quality burgers at home.

Firstly, the Blackstone griddle provides consistent, even heat across its surface. This ensures that your burgers cook evenly, achieving that desirable crispy exterior and juicy interior.

The flat surface also allows for better contact with the meat, which is crucial for creating the signature “smashed” effect.

Secondly, the Blackstone griddle’s spacious cooking area allows you to cook multiple burgers at once without them touching, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Plus, the griddle’s design keeps all the flavorful juices and rendered fat on the cooking surface, infusing your burgers with more flavor.

The flat surface gives the burgers a great sear, and the high heat locks in all the delicious flavors. It’s a must-have tool for any serious burger lover.

Using a Blackstone griddle for your smash burger recipe not only makes the cooking process easier but also significantly enhances the flavor and texture of your burgers.

It’s a win-win situation for any burger enthusiast!

Essential Tools for Making Smash Burgers on a Blackstone Griddle

Creating the perfect smash burger on a Blackstone griddle requires a few essential tools. These tools will help ensure your burgers are cooked to perfection and have that signature “smashed” look and taste.

1. Blackstone Griddle: The star of the show, a Blackstone griddle provides a flat, high-heat surface that’s perfect for cooking smash burgers. The griddle’s even heat distribution ensures your burgers are cooked evenly and achieve a delicious, crispy sear. Blackstone 28 inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station
2. Heavy-duty Spatula: A sturdy, wide spatula is essential for smashing your burgers on the griddle. Look for one with a flat edge and a long handle to protect your hands from the heat. Blackstone Commercial Grade Griddle Spatula
3. Burger Press: While not strictly necessary, a burger press can help you create uniform patties, which will cook more evenly on the griddle. Some burger presses even have a “smash” function. Cuisinart Smashed Burger Press
4. Grill Tongs: A good pair of grill tongs is useful for flipping your burgers and adding toppings. Look for ones with a long handle and a good grip. Weber Stainless Steel Grill Tongs
5. Heat-resistant Gloves: Protect your hands from the high heat of the griddle with a pair of heat-resistant gloves. These will allow you to handle your tools and your burgers safely. Grill Armor Extreme Heat Resistant Oven Gloves

Remember, while having the right tools can make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable, the most important ingredient in any recipe is the love and care you put into preparing it.

Ingredients for the Perfect Blackstone Smash Burgers

Creating the perfect smash burger involves a blend of simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Ground Beef: Opt for a higher fat content, like 80/20, for juicier burgers. The fat melts during cooking, adding flavor and preventing the burgers from drying out.
2. Buns: A soft, sturdy bun like a brioche or a classic sesame seed bun works best. They should be able to hold up to the juicy burger and toppings without getting soggy.
3. Cheese: American cheese is the classic choice for its excellent meltability and creamy texture. However, you can experiment with other types like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
4. Salt and Pepper: These are essential for seasoning your burger patties. Freshly ground black pepper and sea salt can elevate the flavor of your burgers.
5. Toppings: Traditional toppings include lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo. Feel free to get creative and personalize your burger with your favorite toppings.

How to Make Smash Burgers on a Blackstone Griddle

Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step guide to making the perfect smash burger on a Blackstone griddle:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Divide your ground beef into equal portions (about 2-3 ounces each) but don’t form them into patties yet. Slice your buns and prepare your toppings.
2. Heat Your Griddle: Preheat your Blackstone griddle on high heat. You want it nice and hot to achieve a good sear on your burgers.
3. Cook the Burgers: Place the balls of ground beef on the griddle and smash them down firmly with your spatula or burger press. Season with salt and pepper and let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.
4. Flip and Cheese: Flip your burgers (they should release easily if they’re properly seared) and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another minute or so until the cheese is melted.
5. Assemble: Place your cooked burgers on the buns and add your desired toppings. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Remember, the key to a great smash burger is high heat and a quick cook time. This keeps the burgers juicy and gives them a delicious, crispy crust. Enjoy!

Variations on the Smash Burger Recipe:

While the classic smash burger is a delight in itself, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

1. Cheese Variations: Swap out the American cheese for something more adventurous. Try a sharp cheddar for a tangy twist, or go bold with blue cheese. For a spicy kick, pepper jack is a great choice.
2. Toppings Galore: Traditional toppings are great, but why not experiment? Try adding grilled onions, mushrooms, or even a fried egg. For a sweet and tangy contrast, add some barbecue sauce and crispy onion rings.
3. Bun Alternatives: Swap out the traditional bun for something different. Try a pretzel bun for a rich, slightly sweet flavor, or use a ciabatta roll for a rustic touch. For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps work great.

Remember, the best burger is one that’s tailored to your taste. So, feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Blackstone Griddle:

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your Blackstone griddle will ensure it lasts and performs well for years to come. Here’s a simple guide:

1. After Cooking: While the griddle is still warm, scrape off any food residue with a griddle scraper or spatula. Wipe the surface with a cloth or paper towel to remove excess oil.
2. Deep Cleaning: For a deeper clean, squirt some water onto the griddle while it’s still warm. Scrape and scrub the surface with a griddle brush or scouring pad. Wipe clean.
3. Seasoning: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the griddle surface. This helps protect it from rust and maintains the non-stick surface.
4. Cover: When not in use, cover your griddle to protect it from the elements.

Conclusion

In this guide, we’ve explored the art of making the perfect smash burger using a Blackstone griddle.

From the essential tools and ingredients to the cooking process and variations, we’ve covered everything you need to know to create delicious, restaurant-quality burgers at home.

Now, it’s your turn to give it a try. Remember, the key to a great smash burger is high heat, a good sear, and quality ingredients.

But most importantly, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. We can’t wait to hear about your smash burger adventures. Happy grilling!