The Grilling Issue
Smash Burger
Ingredients
½ pounds ground beef, 80/20 lean
4 slices American cheese
4 white or brioche hamburger buns
Condiments, to dress burgers
Lettuce
4 slices tomatoes
Directions
Divide beef into 8 balls about 2 inches in diameter.
Bring a cast-iron skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Once the skillet or grill is hot, lightly brush the surface with oil.
Place beef balls directly on the hot surface. Using a large metal spatula or burger press, smash each ball into a ¼-inch-thick patty.
Liberally season the patties with salt and pepper, and cook, undisturbed, for 2 minutes. Flip the patties, season again with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes. In the last 30 seconds, top each patty with a slice of cheese.
Meanwhile, lightly coat the inside of the buns with butter, and toast in the skillet or on the grill until golden brown.
Build burgers with preferred condiments on bottom bun followed by lettuce, tomato, two burgers and the top bun.
