Smash Burgers
Kid-FriendlyMeal-Prep
The smash technique creates maximum surface area for browning. This recipe is almost entirely crust! Here's how to get great smash burgers in your air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and pepper
- 4 slices American cheese (the melty deli kind, not the individually wrapped singles)
- Burger buns, pickles, onion, mustard, ketchup
Season it upPairs with Simple Salt & Pepper, Umami Bomb, Classic BBQ Rub, or Smoked HickorySee all seasonings →
Steps
- 01Divide the beef into 4 equal balls. Do NOT form into patties. Leave them as loose balls.
- 02Preheat the air fryer to the highest temperature it goes.
- 03Place a ball in the basket and press it flat with a sturdy spatula or a heavy flat-bottomed object. Press HARD. You want it paper-thin, about 1/4 inch thick. The edges should be ragged and lacy.
- 04Season the top aggressively with salt and pepper while it cooks.
- 05Add cheese in the final minute so it melts over the edges.
- 06Ready for the air fryer. Cook 2 at a time max due to the wide, flat shape.
The smash technique creates maximum surface area for the Maillard reaction, which is the browning that gives a burger its flavor. A thick patty has flavor on two surfaces. A smashed patty is almost entirely surface. The lacy, crispy edges are the point. Don't form these into neat patties. Messy is correct.
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How to Air Fry It
- 01Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- 02Prepare hamburgers and season as desired.
- 03Place in basket in a single layer.
- 04Cook for 12 minutes total.
- 05Flip or shake halfway through cooking.
- 06Check for doneness and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
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Season it up
Pairs well
Meal Prep
Stores 3 days refrigerated. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes. Remove toppings before reheating.
Discussion
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