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); Salt and black pepper to taste; 4 slices American or cheddar cheese; 4 burger buns (brioche, potato, or sesame); 1 tbsp butter or oil (for toasting buns); Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onion; Creamy burger sauce:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce are juicy, crispy-edged burgers served on toasted buns and layered with a flavorful, tangy mayo-based sauce. The smash technique locks in flavor while creating golden crusts that give these burgers a crave-worthy bite. I love how simple ingredients come together to make a diner-style burger right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast and flavorful these burgers are. The smashing technique means I don’t need to fuss with thick patties — just a hot skillet and a quick sear to get that crispy edge. The creamy sauce adds a tangy, savory layer that ties the whole burger together. Whether I’m making dinner for the family or weekend burgers for friends, this recipe is always a hit. Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce

Ingredients

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

For the smash burgers:

Ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
Salt
Black pepper
American cheese or cheddar slices
Burger buns (brioche, potato, or sesame)
Butter or oil (for toasting buns)
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onion

For the creamy burger sauce:

Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Lemon juice or vinegar
Black pepper

Directions

Make the sauce: I whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lemon juice or vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl. I chill it in the fridge while prepping the burgers.
Form the beef: I divide the ground beef into 2–3 oz balls, keeping them loose (no need to form thick patties).
Toast the buns: I butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them in a hot skillet until golden and crisp. I set them aside.
Cook the burgers: I heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. I place the beef balls on the skillet and immediately smash them flat using a sturdy spatula or burger press.
I season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1.5–2 minutes until the edges are deeply browned. I flip, top with cheese, and cook another 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked through.
Assemble the burgers: I spread the creamy sauce on the toasted buns, stack the patties, and add any toppings I like. I top with the other half of the bun and serve hot.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

I sometimes add sliced jalapeños or spicy pickles for heat. For a fresh twist, I add arugula or a few slices of avocado. I also like swapping American cheese for sharp cheddar or pepper jack when I want a bolder flavor.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover patties and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat. The sauce keeps well in a sealed container and also works great as a dip or sandwich spread. Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce

FAQs

What kind of ground beef is best?

I use 80/20 ground chuck — the fat keeps the burgers juicy and helps form a crispy crust when smashed.

How do I keep the burgers from sticking?

I make sure the skillet is very hot and use a metal spatula. If needed, I place a piece of parchment between the spatula and meat when smashing.

Can I grill smash burgers?

Smash burgers work best on a flat surface like a griddle or cast iron pan, even if I place it on the grill. The flat contact is what creates the crispy crust.

Do I need to rest the patties?

No — since the patties are thin and cook quickly, they’re ready to eat straight from the pan.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, I often make the sauce a day ahead. It keeps well in the fridge and the flavors get even better with time.

Conclusion

Smash Burgers with Creamy Burger Sauce are a quick, flavorful way to enjoy a classic burger at home. With crispy edges, melty cheese, and a rich sauce layered on a toasted bun, every bite is satisfying and full of flavor. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or making a simple weekend meal, these burgers always steal the show.