Garlic Butter Smash Burgers: Juicy, Flavorful, and Irresistible

If you’re craving a burger that’s juicy, packed with flavor, and quick to make, these garlic butter smash burgers are the ultimate answer. Smash burgers have gained a loyal following for their crispy edges and tender center, and when paired with the richness of garlic butter, every bite becomes unforgettable. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or even a game-day feast. In under 30 minutes, you can serve restaurant-quality burgers from the comfort of your kitchen.

The key to these burgers is in the smash technique, which creates a beautifully seared crust while keeping the meat juicy inside. Adding garlic butter not only enhances the flavor but also adds a silky, indulgent finish that takes this burger from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for a family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is approachable, requires minimal ingredients, and is endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings. Get ready to enjoy burgers that are crispy, buttery, and downright delicious.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 4

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What Makes These Garlic Butter Smash Burgers Special?

• Crispy, caramelized edges: The smash technique ensures every burger has a golden-brown crust with maximum flavor.

• Garlic butter infusion: Adding garlic butter elevates the taste with a savory, buttery richness.

• Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or last-minute dinners.

• Customizable toppings: Cheese, pickles, lettuce, and sauces can be swapped to suit your taste.

• Restaurant-quality at home: Achieve the same flavor and texture as a gourmet burger without the wait.

Tip: Use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan for best results. You’ll get the classic smash burger sear that everyone loves.

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Ingredient Notes

• Ground beef (80/20): Higher fat content keeps the burgers juicy. Leaner beef may dry out.

• Garlic butter: Adds flavor and richness. Can substitute with regular butter mixed with garlic powder.

• Burger buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns work best. Toast them in the skillet with butter for extra flavor.

• Cheese: American, cheddar, or Swiss melt beautifully. Optional but highly recommended.

• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning enhances the beef’s natural flavor.

• Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato, pickles, caramelized onions, and sauces like mayo or mustard.

Special equipment: A heavy skillet, cast iron pan, or griddle, and a spatula for smashing burgers.

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How To Make Garlic Butter Smash Burgers

1. Prep the beef: Divide 1 lb of ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Form loose balls without overworking. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the skillet: Place a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of butter and let it melt.

3. Smash the burgers: Place a beef ball on the skillet. Using a spatula, press down firmly to create a thin patty. Hold for 10 seconds.

4. Cook until crispy: Let burgers cook for 2-3 minutes without moving. Edges should turn golden brown.

5. Flip and add cheese: Flip the patty and immediately top with cheese. Cook another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is done.

6. Garlic butter finish: Brush tops of buns with garlic butter and toast on the skillet until lightly golden.

7. Assemble: Place the patty on the bun, add desired toppings, and serve immediately.

Tips: Do not press the burger after flipping—it keeps the juices inside. Look for crispy edges and melty cheese for perfect results.

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Storage Options

• Room temperature: Best served fresh, within 30 minutes.

• Refrigeration: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Toast buns separately before serving.

• Freezing: Wrap cooked patties individually in foil, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, then add fresh toppings.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheesy bacon smash burger: Add crispy bacon and cheddar for extra indulgence.

• Spicy garlic burger: Mix sriracha into garlic butter or add pickled jalapeños.

• Veggie option: Use a black bean patty or plant-based burger for a vegetarian version.

• Seasonal toppings: Try caramelized onions and roasted red peppers in the fall.

• Low-carb option: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of buns.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use lean ground beef?
Yes, but burgers may be less juicy. Consider adding a small amount of butter to keep moisture.

2. How do I make smash burgers without a spatula?
A heavy spoon or burger press works in a pinch, but a spatula gives the best sear.

3. Can I make burgers ahead of time?
You can prep the beef balls in advance, but smash and cook right before serving for best texture.

4. Can I freeze uncooked burgers?
Yes, separate patties with parchment paper and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

5. What cheese works best?
American cheese melts the best, but cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack are great alternatives.

6. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic butter?
Yes, mix softened butter with garlic powder for a quick substitute.

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Conclusion

These garlic butter smash burgers are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. They’re quick to make, fully customizable, and guaranteed to impress anyone at the dinner table. Grab your skillet, melt that garlic butter, and get ready for burgers that rival any restaurant. Try them today and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!

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