"Classic Smash Burgers are so simple to prepare on a hot griddle or cast iron skillet. Crispy edges and plenty of crunch from the veggies and other toppings – every bite is an exciting explosion of flavors and textures. They cook quickly, so eat up while they are hot."
4 hamburger buns
2 tablespoons butter, softened, or as needed
1 pound ground chuck beef (80% lean)
4 6-inch squares parchment paper
salt to taste
4 slices American cheese
burger toppings of choice
Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil the grate. Set a cast iron flat-top griddle or large cast iron skillet onto the grill and preheat until smoking.
Butter the buns and toast them on the griddle for about 30 seconds or more, just until toasted.
Form meat into 8 loosely packed balls. Place balls on the hot flat-top, cover with a piece of parchment to prevent sticking to the spatula. (Re-use each parchment square on a second patty). Smash down to a 1/4 inch thickness using a metal spatula or burger press. Sprinkle the meat with salt.
Grill for about 45 seconds, until the edges are dark brown, and the centers are a light pink color. Using a bench scraper or metal spatula, gently scrape up the patties, flip over and immediately cover 4 of them with cheese. Grill an additional 15 to 20 seconds; stack the plain patties over the cheese-covered patties so you have 4 stacks. Move each stack to a toasted bun and serve with your favorite toppings.