Why Make This Recipe
Protein Packed Smash Burgers are a tasty way to enjoy a classic meal while loading up on protein. They are quick to make, and the smashing technique creates a delicious crust full of flavor. Whether you are feeding a family or hosting friends, these burgers are sure to impress. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings!
How to Make Protein Packed Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato, sliced
- Onion, sliced
- Cheese (optional)
- Your choice of condiments
Directions:
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into equal portions.
- Place each portion on the hot skillet and immediately smash it down with a spatula to create a patty.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip the patty.
- Add cheese if desired and cook for an additional minute.
- Toast the burger buns on the skillet.
- Assemble the burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your chosen condiments.
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve Protein Packed Smash Burgers
Serve these delicious burgers hot off the skillet. You can place the assembled burgers on a plate and pair them with fries or a salad for a complete meal. Set out extra toppings and condiments so everyone can customize their burger to their liking.
How to Store Protein Packed Smash Burgers
If you have leftovers, you can store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing. You can also freeze the uncooked patties by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Protein Packed Smash Burgers
- Don’t overwork the meat when forming the patties; this keeps them tender.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before you smash the patties to create a good crust.
- Experiment with different cheese types like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Try adding some garlic powder or your favorite spices to the meat for an extra kick.
Variation
You can change up the toppings to suit your taste. Consider adding pickles, jalapeños, or avocado. You can also use different types of ground meat, like turkey or chicken, for a lighter version of the smash burger.
FAQs
Can I use leaner ground beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, but a bit of fat helps keep the burgers juicy.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just cook them on the skillet when you’re ready to serve.
What is the best kind of bun for smash burgers?
Soft burger buns are best. They hold up well with the toppings and don’t overpower the flavor of the meat.
Protein Packed Smash Burgers
Delicious and protein-packed smash burgers that are quick to make and customizable with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free buns)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- Cheese (optional)
- Your choice of condiments
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into equal portions.
- Place each portion on the hot skillet and immediately smash it down with a spatula to create a patty.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip the patty.
- Add cheese if desired and cook for an additional minute.
- Toast the burger buns on the skillet.
- Assemble the burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your chosen condiments.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Don’t overwork the meat when forming the patties; it keeps them tender. Make sure the skillet is hot enough before smashing the patties. Experiment with different cheese types and spices for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
