We use cookies and similar technologies to improve user experience, and analyse activities and performance. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy. 
Recipe Detail Page
Smash Burgers with Cheese, Pickles and Special Sauce
Winter 2018
Griddled all-beef patties topped with gooey cheese and a truly special sauce, these smash burgers are a game changer. Chuck is an ideal cut for burgers, as its meat-to-fat ratio will ensure juicy results. A cast-iron pan or griddle is essential here for the best possible crust—the high heat can also damage a nonstick pan. If you only have a thin metal spatula, you can double up with another spatula or cheese slicer to properly press the beef.
Serves 4
SPECIAL SAUCE
1 tbsp (15 mL) finely chopped shallot
2 tsp (10 mL) cider vinegar
6 tbsp (90 mL) mayonnaise (reduced fat is fine)
2 tbsp (30 mL) ketchup
2 tsp (10 mL) sriracha sauce
1 tsp (5 mL) yellow mustard
½ tsp (2 mL) Worcestershire sauce
Pinch ground cumin
BURGERS
1 lb (500 g) good quality ground beef chuck
2 tsp (10 mL) vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
4 thin slices processed cheese
4 soft, medium-size burger buns
16 slices bread-and-butter pickles, drained
4 pieces leaf lettuce (slightly bigger than bun)
1. For the special sauce, combine shallot and vinegar in a small mixing bowl. Let stand 15 minutes. Stir in rest of ingredients. (Sauce will keep, covered and refrigerated, for 5 days.)
2. Divide beef into 4 even portions. With minimal handling, form each portion into a ball.
3. Heat a seasoned cast-iron griddle or large skillet over a medium heat for 5 minutes. Turn fan over stovetop on high and raise heat under pan to high. Add vegetable oil and spread with balled-up paper towel clutched in tongs. Add beef balls and firmly press each ball down with sturdy metal spatula to a 4-inch (10-cm) diameter. Season tops with salt and pepper. Cook, undisturbed, until brown crust forms, about 2 minutes. Flip, making sure to get under the crust. Season tops with salt and top each patty with cheese slice. Cook until burger reaches desired doneness, about 1 minute for medium or 2 minutes for well done.
4. Smear bun bottoms generously with special sauce. Top each with patty, 4 pickle slices and lettuce. Add bun tops and serve immediately.
Serves 4
