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Smashburger Grilled Cheese

The ultimate comfort food crossover: ultra-thin, crispy-edged beef patties smashed on a hot griddle, layered with melted American and Cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between thick, butter-toasted bread.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sandwich Components
  • 0.5 lb ground beef 80/20 blend, divided into four 2oz balls
  • 4 slices thick-cut bread Sourdough or Texas Toast
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 slices Sharp Cheddar cheese or Pepper Jack
  • 2 tbsp butter or mayonnaise softened, for spreading on bread
  • 1 tsp kosher salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder optional
  • 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil for the pan

Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle
  • Heavy flat spatula
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Divide ground beef into four equal 2-ounce portions and roll them loosely into balls. Set aside.
  2. Spread softened butter or mayonnaise evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
  3. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot. Lightly oil the surface.
  4. Place beef balls in the skillet. Immediately press down firmly with a heavy spatula to smash them flat and thin. Hold for 10 seconds.
  5. Season patties with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook undisturbed for 60-90 seconds until edges are dark and crispy.
  6. Scrape underneath to flip the patties. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Cook for 30 more seconds until cheese begins to melt, then remove from pan.
  7. Assemble sandwiches: Place two patties inside the unbuttered sides of the bread, creating two sandwiches.
  8. Wipe pan clean, reduce heat to medium-low. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3-4 minutes until the bottom bread is golden brown.
  9. Carefully flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes until bread is crispy and cheese in the center is completely melted.
  10. Remove, let rest for 1-2 minutes, slice, and serve hot.

Notes

Use an 80/20 beef blend to ensure the patties stay juicy after smashing. Mayonnaise yields a crispier, more even crust on the bread than butter.