A Proper Smashed Burger: Our Way
There’s something magical about a properly smashed burger – that perfect harmony of crispy, caramelized edges and juicy center that elevates a simple patty into something extraordinary. At AX Barbecue, we’ve crafted the ideal tools to help you achieve smash burger perfection. Here’s our comprehensive guide to creating these delicious creations using our sustainable, handcrafted burger press.
Why Smashed Burgers Reign Supreme
Before diving into technique, let’s talk about why smashed burgers have become a backyard grilling sensation. Unlike traditional thick patties, smashed burgers utilize the Maillard reaction – that beautiful browning process that creates complex flavors as the meat’s proteins and sugars react under heat. By maximizing surface area, you get more of those crispy, flavorful bits that make your taste buds sing.
The Essential Tool
Our 6mm steel burger press isn’t just sustainably made from excess smoker material – it’s the perfect weight and size for creating consistent, beautifully smashed patties. The flat bottom and comfortable handle (whether you chose our artisanal wooden handles or our durable stainless steel option) give you complete control over the smashing process.
The Perfect Smashed Burger Method
- Start with Quality Meat: Use freshly ground beef with a fat content around 20-25% (80/75 lean). Form loose 3-4 oz balls – don’t compact them!
- Heat Matters: Get your griddle or cast iron pan ripping hot. You want it around 400-450°F for optimal searing.
- The Perfect Smash: Place your meat ball on the hot surface, and then use our AX Barbecue press with confidence. Apply firm, even pressure straight down for about 5-8 seconds. The goal is a thin (about 1/4-inch) patty with slightly irregular edges.
- Season Simply: After the smash, season generously with salt and pepper. The thin patty means seasoning only one side is sufficient.
- Timing is Everything: Cook for 60-90 seconds until you see the edges browning and juices bubbling through the top. Flip once, add cheese if desired, and cook another 30-45 seconds.
Pro Tips from the AX Barbecue Team
- Use a metal spatula to scrape underneath the patty, ensuring you capture all those crispy bits
- Butter and toast your buns while the patties cook
- Keep toppings simple – let the beefy flavor shine
- After flipping, gently press once more with the burger press for even cooking
- Have a cold beverage ready (opened with our matching bottle opener, of course!)
The Perfect Build
The classic smashed burger needs little embellishment. A soft potato roll, special sauce (mix mayo, ketchup, pickle relish, and a dash of smoked paprika), thinly sliced onions, and perhaps a slice of American cheese are all you need for burger nirvana. The beauty lies in the simplicity and the exceptional flavor created by our perfect pressing technique.
Sustainable Craftsmanship, Sustainable Cooking
There’s something deeply satisfying about creating incredible food using tools built with purpose and planet in mind. Each time you press a perfect smashed burger with our recycled steel press, you’re participating in our zero-waste philosophy while crafting an exceptional meal for friends and family.
When the burgers are sizzling, the edges are crisping, and friends are gathering around your grill, don’t forget to crack open a cold one with our matching bottle opener – because great food deserves to be celebrated with proper tools and good company.
Ready to elevate your smash burger game? Grab an AX Barbecue burger press and taste the difference that purpose-built, sustainable craftsmanship makes in your outdoor cooking experience. Your taste buds – and the planet – will thank you.
