Smash Burger with Pickle Aioli (Printable Page)
# What You Need:
→ Beef Patties
01 -
1½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Pickle Aioli
03 -
½ cup mayonnaise
04 -
2 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles
05 -
1 tsp pickle juice
06 -
1 tsp Dijon mustard
07 -
1 small garlic clove, minced
→ Toppings & Assembly
08 -
4 brioche burger buns, buttered
09 -
4 slices American cheese
10 -
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
11 -
8 slices dill pickle
12 -
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
13 -
Cooking oil or clarified butter, for searing
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, chopped pickles, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
02 -
Divide the ground beef into 8 equal balls (about 3 oz / 85 g each). Do not overwork the meat.
03 -
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly toast the buttered brioche buns until golden. Set aside.
04 -
Increase heat to high. Lightly oil the skillet. Place 2–4 meat balls on the hot surface (depending on size). Smash each with a firm spatula or burger press until thin (approx. ¼ inch thick). Season with salt and pepper.
05 -
Cook for 2 minutes or until edges are browned and crispy. Flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook 1 minute more. Remove and repeat with remaining patties.
06 -
Spread pickle aioli on the bottom buns. Add lettuce, a cheesy patty, another patty (for double smash), pickles, red onion, and top bun. Serve immediately.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
Use a cast-iron skillet for best crust results.
02 -
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
03 -
Substitute cheddar for a sharper flavor.