There’s something blissful about the simple act of smashing a burger and transforming it into a grilled cheese delight. As I stood at my kitchen counter, the smell of sizzling ground beef mingling with caramelized onions filled the air, instantly transporting me back to summer barbecues with family. That day wasn’t just about food; it was a heartwarming moment of nostalgia, reminding me of the joy of homemade comfort.
This Smashburger Grilled Cheese isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures! With juicy, crispy edges, gooey cheese, and a pop of pickle crunch, it’s perfect for those evenings when fast food just won’t cut it. Whether you’re cooking for family or indulging in a solo treat, this recipe is an invitation to savor every bite. Join me as we elevate this classic dish, ensuring every sandwich is packed with love and flavor!
Why is Smashburger Grilled Cheese a Must-Try?
Deliciously Unique: This isn’t your average grilled cheese; it combines the best of both worlds—burgers and cheesy goodness.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a perfect medley of savory smashburger flavor, creamy American and Havarti cheese, and a delightful zing from pickle chips.
Quick to Prepare: You can whip up this mouthwatering sandwich in no time, making it a fantastic solution for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this sandwich is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Nostalgic Comfort: The aroma of sizzling beef and melted cheese brings back memories of summer cookouts, giving you a comforting retreat anytime!
Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces; the options are endless! For more delicious ideas, check out my perfectly paired sauces to elevate your burger experience.
Smashburger Grilled Cheese Ingredients
Get ready to create a grilled cheese masterpiece that takes comfort food to the next level!
For the Burgers
- 1 lb Ground Beef – Choose an 80/20 blend for that juicy, flavorful texture.
- 1 small Onion – Thinly sliced for a sweet caramelized touch.
- ½ cup Smashburger Sauce – This sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick that’s irresistible.
For the Sandwich
- 8 slices Hearty White Bread – Opt for thick slices to hold all the delicious fillings.
- 8 slices American Cheese – The classic melty favorite, perfect for that gooey experience.
- 2 cups Havarti Cheese – Shredded to add extra creaminess and flavor.
Finishing Touches
- ⅓ cup Sliced Dill Pickle Chips – For that delightful crunch and tangy contrast.
- 2 tablespoons Salted Butter – To achieve that golden, crisp crust.
- Kosher Salt – A sprinkle for perfectly seasoned burgers.
- Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds a burst of flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the savory world of Smashburger Grilled Cheese!
How to Make Smashburger Grilled Cheese
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Divide your ground beef into four quarters and roll them into balls. This helps achieve the perfect patty shape once smashed. Aim for a size slightly larger than your bread for a delicious edge-to-edge flavor!
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Heat a large cast iron skillet or flat top griddle until it’s super hot. A preheated surface ensures that your burgers will sear beautifully and develop that coveted crispy crust.
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Add the beef balls to the hot surface, then sprinkle with kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and a teaspoon of smashburger sauce. Lay equal amounts of sliced onion around each ball for sweet, caramelized flavor.
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Cover each burger with wax or parchment paper. Smash each one down firmly with a thin spatula and a heavy object until flattened to about ½ inch thickness. Enjoy the satisfying sound of that irresistible burger smash!
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Flip the burgers when they’re about 60% cooked, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious bits that may be sticking to the skillet. This action ensures you get all those flavorful morsels in every bite.
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Top each smashed burger with 2 slices of American cheese. Let it melt until the cheese is gooey and the burger reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, resulting in a juicy, cheesey masterpiece.
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Smear 1 tablespoon of smashburger sauce onto four slices of hearty white bread while the burgers finish cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your sandwich.
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Melt half of the butter in the skillet and place the sauced bread slices sauce side up. It’ll create a deliciously crispy foundation for your sandwich.
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Flip the cheeseburgers onto the sauced bread, cheese side down. Top with dill pickle chips, and sprinkle shredded Havarti generously over the patties. This layering creates a flavor harmony that’s downright irresistible!
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Place the other slice of bread on top and butter the outer sides with the remaining butter. This ensures a beautiful golden crust after cooking.
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Cook until the bottom of the sandwich is golden brown and the cheese is melted, then flip and cook until the other side is equally golden and delicious. Keep your eye on the color for that perfect crunch!
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Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving. This settling time helps the flavors meld and makes for a perfect bite every time. Serve with the remaining smashburger sauce for dunking!
Optional: For an extra kick, add jalapeño slices to the inner layers!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Smashburger Grilled Cheese Variations
Get ready to take your delicious Smashburger Grilled Cheese to the next level with these fun and flavorful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra fiery flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Spice enthusiasts rejoice, as this simple addition packs a punch that perfectly complements the savory beef!
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Veggie Delight: Swap out the ground beef for black bean patties or lentil burgers for a hearty vegetarian option. You’ll still enjoy a satisfyingly creamy texture, while adding a nutty flavor that enhances the entire sandwich.
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Cheese Lover’s Twist: Layer in a variety of cheeses like pepper jack or gouda to elevate the cheesiness to a whole new realm. Mixing cheeses creates a delightful, gooey blend that ensures your grilled cheese stays irresistibly melty!
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Garlic Butter Bliss: Infuse your butter with minced garlic before spreading it on the bread. This aromatic twist will elevate the flavor profile, giving every bite an inviting buttery richness that’s hard to resist.
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Mediterranean Flair: Add in slices of roasted red peppers and baby spinach for a fresh, Mediterranean spin. Not only does this add a burst of color, but it also brings an exciting flavor contrast that makes for a unique sandwich experience.
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BBQ Swirl: Mix in a tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce with the smashburger sauce for a smoky twist. This fusion creates a delightful meld of flavors that brings a tangy balance to the savory elements of the burger.
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Crunchy Additions: Toss in some crispy bacon or fried onion straws for added texture and flavor. These crunchy goodies provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy cheese and tender beef, ensuring every bite is an adventure!
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Herbed Up: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the mixture for a refreshing herbal note. This simple touch can elevate the sandwich’s taste, offering a fresh burst of flavor alongside the rich cheese and beef.
How to Store and Freeze Smashburger Grilled Cheese
Room Temperature: Allow the sandwich to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours, ensuring it doesn’t become soggy.
Fridge: For best results, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for a crispy finish.
Freezer: Wrap individual sandwiches in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months for a delicious future treat.
Reheating: To reheat, let thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and the cheese is melted for that comforting Smashburger experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Smashburger Grilled Cheese sandwiches are a fantastic solution for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort. You can prepare the hamburger patties and slice the onions up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately to preserve freshness. The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, just heat your skillet, smash the patties, and assemble your sandwiches as directed. To maintain the quality, be sure to let the ingredients come to room temperature before cooking, ensuring your Smashburger Grilled Cheese remains as delicious and comforting as ever!
Expert Tips for Smashburger Grilled Cheese
- Perfect Patties: Ensure even cooking by rolling the beef into uniform balls. Aim for slightly larger than your bread for irresistible edge-to-edge flavor.
- Hot Surface: Preheat your skillet until it smokes before adding the beef. This step is crucial for achieving that sought-after crispy crust.
- Careful Flipping: When flipping the burgers, gently scrape with the spatula to release any browned bits, maximizing flavor in your Smashburger Grilled Cheese.
- Cheese Meltdown: Use a lid to cover the burgers while the cheese melts; this traps the heat and ensures gooey perfection.
- Butter Up: Don’t skip buttering the outside of the bread! This creates that golden, crispy crust that takes your sandwich to the next level.
- Pickle Placement: For an extra crunch, layer pickles in the center rather than on top; they’ll stay crisp and add a delightful texture without sogginess.
What to Serve with Smashburger Grilled Cheese?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your Smashburger Grilled Cheese.
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Crispy French Fries: A classic pairing, these crunchy fries bring a satisfying contrast to the gooey sandwich. Dip them in that extra smashburger sauce for a bonus treat!
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Sweet Potato Wedges: The slight sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the savory flavors of the sandwich, adding a nutritious twist to your meal.
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Coleslaw: This refreshing side provides a crunchy, tangy contrast, cutting through the richness of the cheese and beef with each bite.
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Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus sautéed in garlic butter adds a lovely, vibrant green to your plate, making it as delicious as it is visually appealing.
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Tomato Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup is perfect for dipping those cheesy edges, creating a cozy classic combination.
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Pickle Chips: Extra crunchy pickles enhance the flavor profile of your sandwich. Their tang complements the savory elements beautifully, keeping things fresh and bright.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, refreshing drink provides a palate-cleansing sip between those tasty bites, keeping your taste buds on their toes!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal sweetly with warm, gooey cookies, offering a comforting finish that pairs flawlessly with the flavors of the sandwich.
Enjoy your Smashburger Grilled Cheese with these delectable sides, and create a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul!
Smashburger Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the Smashburger Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! I recommend using an 80/20 blend of ground beef. This fat-to-lean ratio provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness, resulting in a tender patty with delicious crispy edges once smashed and cooked.
How should I store leftover Smashburger Grilled Cheese?
For the best taste, wrap any leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, pop them in a skillet to retain that crispy outer layer!
Can I freeze the Smashburger Grilled Cheese?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. These can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet until they’re warm and cheesy!
What if my cheese isn’t melting properly?
If your cheese isn’t melting as desired, try covering the skillet with a lid while cooking – this traps heat and helps the cheese melt to gooey perfection. Also, ensure that your burgers are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to fully enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making Smashburger Grilled Cheese?
Great question! If you have dairy allergies, you can substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives. For gluten-free needs, swap the hearty white bread for gluten-free bread. Just make sure to check the labels of your ingredients to avoid any allergens. Always an option to customize according to your dietary needs!
How can I ensure my onions are properly caramelized while cooking?
To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, slice them thinly and let them sauté with the beef during cooking. The heat should be sufficiently high; you’ll want to stir them occasionally until they reach a beautiful golden-brown color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, creating that sweet, savory flavor that complements your Smashburger Grilled Cheese beautifully!
Ultimate Smashburger Grilled Cheese: Your New Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Divide your ground beef into four quarters and roll them into balls.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet or flat top griddle until it’s super hot.
- Add the beef balls to the hot surface, then sprinkle with kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and a teaspoon of smashburger sauce.
- Cover each burger with wax or parchment paper and smash each one down until flattened to about ½ inch thickness.
- Flip the burgers when they’re about 60% cooked, using a spatula to scrape up any bits that may be sticking to the skillet.
- Top each smashed burger with 2 slices of American cheese and let it melt.
- Smear 1 tablespoon of smashburger sauce onto four slices of hearty white bread.
- Melt half of the butter in the skillet and place the sauced bread slices sauce side up.
- Flip the cheeseburgers onto the sauced bread, cheese side down, and top with dill pickle chips and shredded Havarti.
- Place the other slice of bread on top and butter the outer sides with the remaining butter.
- Cook until the bottom of the sandwich is golden brown and the cheese is melted; then flip and cook until the other side is golden.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving.