This Smash Burger Grilled Cheese is the perfect marriage of two comfort food favorites—crispy smash burgers and gooey grilled cheese. The combination of buttery, golden-brown sourdough, juicy beef patties, and melted layers of cheddar and American cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Elevate your lunch or dinner with this easy-to-make recipe that packs gourmet flavors into a quick 25-minute meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend treat, this dish will leave everyone at the table raving about the melty, savory goodness. Pair it with a side of fries, a simple salad, or even a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 slices of sourdough bread
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pickles, caramelized onions, or lettuce for serving
Directions:
- Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and roll into loose balls. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls on it and press down with a heavy spatula to form thin patties. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Mix the softened butter with garlic powder and onion powder. Spread the mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Assemble the sandwiches: on the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices, layer 1 slice of cheddar, 1 beef patty, another slice of cheddar, and a slice of American cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
- Place the assembled sandwiches on the same skillet over medium heat. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing down lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with pickles, caramelized onions, or lettuce for extra flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 750 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
History and Background
The Smash Burger Grilled Cheese combines two American comfort food staples: the classic grilled cheese sandwich and the beloved smash burger. Smash burgers are famous for their crispy, caramelized edges achieved by pressing ground beef onto a hot griddle, a technique popularized in diners across the United States. Grilled cheese sandwiches, on the other hand, have been a favorite for decades due to their simplicity and satisfying gooey texture. By merging these two, this recipe elevates the experience into a decadent meal.
Why This Recipe Works
- Texture and Flavor Balance: The crispy edges of the smash burger contrast beautifully with the soft, gooey melted cheese. The buttered sourdough bread adds a crunchy and slightly nutty flavor.
- Customizable Add-ons: You can tailor the sandwich by adding pickles for tanginess, caramelized onions for sweetness, or lettuce for a fresh crunch.
- Quick to Make: With just a few ingredients and 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Ingredient Tips
- Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for juicy patties that develop crispy edges.
- Bread: Sourdough works best because of its sturdy texture and mild tanginess, but you can substitute it with brioche, white sandwich bread, or any bread of choice.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a bold flavor, while American cheese ensures a creamy melt. You can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for different tastes.
- Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder in the butter elevate the flavor profile without complicating the recipe.
Cooking Tips
- Preheating the Skillet: Ensure the skillet or griddle is hot before adding the beef. This helps achieve the characteristic crispy crust of smash burgers.
- Pressing the Patties: Use a sturdy spatula to press the patties thinly, allowing maximum caramelization. For an even press, use a small cast-iron skillet or burger press.
- Cheese Placement: Layer the cheddar directly on the hot patties to allow it to start melting, making assembly quicker and ensuring maximum gooeyness.
- Golden Bread: Spread the butter mixture evenly for perfectly golden and flavorful bread.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve this grilled cheese sandwich with a classic side of French fries or sweet potato fries.
- Pair it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or spicy jalapeño ranch dip for a warm and satisfying meal.
- Add a fizzy beverage like cola or a refreshing drink such as a lemonade spritzer to complement the rich flavors.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the patties for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef patties with a veggie burger or portobello mushroom caps for a meat-free version.
- BBQ-Style: Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on the bread before assembling for a smoky twist.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (unlikely, because they’re so good!), wrap them tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore the crispy bread and melted cheese.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This recipe is a fusion of two iconic comfort foods, creating an indulgent dish that satisfies both burger and grilled cheese lovers. The juicy, crispy smash burger patties paired with gooey melted cheese and golden, buttery bread offer a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Dual Appeal: Combines the heartiness of a burger with the nostalgia of a grilled cheese.
- Easy Gourmet: While simple to make, the layers of flavors feel like restaurant-quality comfort food.
- Versatile: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a decadent snack.
Nutritional Information
This dish is indulgent, but you can balance it with thoughtful sides. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: ~750 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~50g
- Fiber: ~2g
To reduce calories, consider using leaner ground beef, whole-grain bread, or reduced-fat cheese. Adding a side salad or steamed vegetables can also enhance its nutritional value.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Cast-Iron Skillet or Griddle: Essential for achieving the crispy crust on the beef patties.
- Sturdy Spatula: For pressing the beef into thin patties. A burger press works well too.
- Bread Knife: Ensures even slices of sourdough or your bread of choice.
- Butter Knife: For spreading the garlic butter mixture smoothly.
Common Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough adds a tangy note and holds up well, you can experiment with brioche, rye, or even whole wheat bread for a different flavor and texture.
2. What Other Cheeses Work Well?
If you’re feeling adventurous, try mozzarella for a stringy melt, gouda for a nutty flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
3. How Can I Add More Flavor?
Incorporate additional layers of flavor with toppings like sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or a spicy aioli spread.
Pro Tips for Perfect Smash Burger Grilled Cheese
- Chill Your Beef Before Cooking: Cold ground beef helps create a better crust when smashed on a hot skillet.
- Butter Temperature: Use softened butter, not melted, to evenly coat the bread without soaking through.
- Layering Cheese: Always place cheese directly on the hot patties to allow it to melt thoroughly and bind to the meat.
- Low and Slow on Bread: Grill sandwiches over medium heat to ensure the bread doesn’t burn before the cheese melts.
Serving Ideas
- Classic Comfort: Pair with shoestring fries or tater tots and a side of ketchup.
- Fresh Balance: Serve with a crisp side salad featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
- Game Day Spread: Combine with a platter of nachos, onion rings, or buffalo wings for the ultimate indulgent meal.
Creative Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef and use Monterey Jack cheese with a dollop of guacamole.
- Italian Flair: Substitute mozzarella and provolone for cheddar, and add marinara sauce for dipping.
- Breakfast Option: Top the beef patty with a fried egg and swap sourdough for brioche.
Recipe Story
The Smash Burger Grilled Cheese was inspired by a love for comfort food that brings people together. Combining the crispy crust of a smash burger with the gooey goodness of a grilled cheese, this recipe is a nostalgic nod to childhood favorites, now elevated for adult taste buds. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this dish is guaranteed to spark conversations and satisfy cravings.
Conclusion
The Smash Burger Grilled Cheese is the perfect blend of two comfort food classics, offering crispy, flavorful patties and gooey, melted cheese in every bite. Its simplicity and bold flavors make it a go-to for quick dinners or casual gatherings. Customize it to suit your taste, and enjoy this indulgent, crowd-pleasing dish. Happy cooking!