Why Make This Recipe
The Smashburger Grilled Cheese with Special Sauce is a delightful twist on two beloved comfort foods: a classic burger and a cheesy grilled cheese sandwich. This dish is not just packed with flavor; it’s also a fun way to combine the best of both worlds. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe brings a tasty and filling meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
How to Make Smashburger Grilled Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 small Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Smashburger Sauce
- 8 slices Hearty White Bread
- 8 slices American Cheese
- 2 cups Havarti Cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup Sliced Dill Pickle Chips
- 2 tbsp Salted Butter
- Kosher Salt
- Fresh Cracked Pepper
Directions:
- Divide the ground beef into four quarters and roll them into balls.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet or flat top griddle until it is smoking hot.
- Once the surface begins to smoke, add the beef balls and sprinkle each one with a pinch of salt and cracked pepper. Add 1 teaspoon of burger sauce and an equal amount of sliced onion on top.
- Place a sheet of wax or parchment paper over each burger and smash it down using a spatula and something heavy, like a sandwich press or meat mallet.
- Cook the burgers until they start caramelizing and are about 60% cooked through, then flip them, scraping up any bits that are stuck.
- After flipping, put 2 slices of American cheese on each burger and let them melt until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Reduce the heat and spread 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on four slices of bread.
- Melt half of the butter on the clean side of the skillet, then place the sauced bread slices on that side, sauce side up. Flip the cheeseburgers onto the sauced bread, cheese side down, and add some sliced pickles. Top with shredded Havarti cheese.
- Place the remaining slices of bread on top, and butter the outside sides.
- Cook until the bottom slice is golden brown and the cheese is mostly melted. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving. Serve with the remaining smash burger sauce for dunking.
How to Serve Smashburger Grilled Cheese
Serve this delicious Smashburger Grilled Cheese hot, with extra Smashburger sauce on the side for dipping. You can pair it with fries, a side salad, or some crunchy chips for a complete meal that will satisfy any craving.
How to Store Smashburger Grilled Cheese
If you have leftovers, let the grilled cheese cool to room temperature. Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the toaster oven.
Tips to Make Smashburger Grilled Cheese
- Use a cast iron skillet for even cooking and crispy bread.
- Don’t rush the smashing process as it helps create a better crust on the burger.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of pickles and cheese to suit your taste.
- Experiment with other types of bread for different flavors.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other toppings like bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor. You can also swap out the American cheese for your favorite cheese variety.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
For a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based burger patty and vegan cheese instead of beef and regular cheese.
How can I make the sauce for dipping?
You can make a simple dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, and a hint of mustard or any of your favorite condiments for a tasty twist.
Smashburger Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
For the burgers
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 small Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Smashburger Sauce
- 8 slices Hearty White Bread
- 8 slices American Cheese
- 2 cups Havarti Cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup Sliced Dill Pickle Chips
- 2 tbsp Salted Butter
- Kosher Salt to taste
- Fresh Cracked Pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Divide the ground beef into four quarters and roll them into balls.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet or flat top griddle until it is smoking hot.
Cooking
- Once the surface begins to smoke, add the beef balls and sprinkle each one with a pinch of salt and cracked pepper.
- Add 1 teaspoon of burger sauce and an equal amount of sliced onion on top.
- Place a sheet of wax or parchment paper over each burger and smash it down using a spatula and something heavy, like a sandwich press or meat mallet.
- Cook the burgers until they start caramelizing and are about 60% cooked through, then flip them, scraping up any bits that are stuck.
- After flipping, put 2 slices of American cheese on each burger and let them melt until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Reduce the heat and spread 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on four slices of bread.
- Melt half of the butter on the clean side of the skillet, then place the sauced bread slices on that side, sauce side up.
- Flip the cheeseburgers onto the sauced bread, cheese side down, and add some sliced pickles. Top with shredded Havarti cheese.
- Place the remaining slices of bread on top, and butter the outside sides.
- Cook until the bottom slice is golden brown and the cheese is mostly melted. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving.
Notes
Tips: Use a cast iron skillet for even cooking, and don’t rush the smashing process for a better crust.