Name: Smash Burger Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs 80/20 ground chuck beef, divided into six 1/4 lb balls; 1 tbsp neutral oil; 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more for seasoning; 1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more for seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for seasoning blend); 1/2 tsp onion powder (for seasoning blend); 1 tsp prepared Smash Burger Grilled Cheese Sauce (for patties, from sauce recipe below); 12 slices sturdy bread (brioche, sourdough, or Texas toast); 12 slices American cheese; 6 slices sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, OR 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for grilling bread); 1 small white onion, thinly sliced or diced; 1/2 cup drained dill pickle chips; For the Special Smash Burger Grilled Cheese Sauce:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish (or finely minced dill pickle); 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Smash Burger Grilled Cheese. What if I told you that your two most cherished comfort foods could unite in a single, utterly irresistible creation? Prepare yourselves, because the culinary marvel you’ve been dreaming of has arrived! This isn’t merely a sandwich; it’s a gastronomic event, a delightful fusion that elevates familiar flavors to extraordinary heights. Imagine the exquisite contrast: a perfectly smashed burger, its edges caramelized to a crispy, savory crust, encasing a juicy patty, all nestled between slices of artisanal bread, overflowing with molten, gooey cheese, then griddled to a magnificent golden perfection. While the humble grilled cheese has warmed hearts and graced tables for generations, evolving from a simple meal to a canvas for gourmet expression, and the smash burger has revolutionized the burger scene with its undeniable texture and flavor, combining them births something truly revolutionary.

People unequivocally adore this dish because it delivers an unparalleled symphony of textures and flavors. The rich, umami-laden beef, the sharp or creamy notes of the cheese, and the buttery, crunchy bread converge into an incredibly satisfying experience. It’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, yet it yields a gourmet sensation using accessible ingredients, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend indulgences. Get ready to transform your perception of comfort food with the sensational Smash Burger Grilled Cheese – an iconic duo now ready to become your new favorite!

Ingredients:

For the Smash Burger Patties:
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) 80/20 ground chuck beef (this fat content is crucial for a juicy smash burger!), divided into six 1/4 lb (113g) balls
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil, such as canola or grapeseed, for the griddle
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Ultimate Grilled Cheese:
- 12 slices of your favorite sturdy bread – I highly recommend a thick-cut brioche, sourdough, or Texas toast for the best texture and structure to hold all that goodness!
- 12 slices of American cheese (for classic melt and stretch), plus 6 slices of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra flavor depth – that’s 3 slices of cheese per sandwich!
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened, or 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for grilling the bread – mayo creates an unbelievably crispy, golden crust!)
For the Toppings & “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” Sauce:
- 1 small white onion, very thinly sliced into rings or finely diced (you can also caramelize some for an extra layer of flavor!)
- 1/2 cup dill pickle chips, drained well
- Special “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” Sauce (Optional, but highly recommended!):
  - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  - 2 tablespoons ketchup
  - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  - 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (or finely minced dill pickle)
  - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  - A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)

Prepping Your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” Components

Alright, let’s get down to business and prepare everything we need to build the most epic “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” you’ll ever sink your teeth into. Preparation is key for a smooth cooking experience, especially when you’re dealing with hot griddles and fast-cooking patties!

Prepare the Ground Beef: First things first, grab your 80/20 ground chuck. The fat content here is absolutely crucial – it’s what gives smash burgers their incredible juiciness and flavor, rendering out beautifully to create those crispy edges. Gently divide the meat into six equal portions, about 1/4 lb each. Resist the urge to pack them tightly! We want loose, relaxed balls of meat right now, as we’ll be smashing them later. Place them on a plate or baking sheet and pop them back into the fridge while you prep everything else. This helps them hold their shape a little better before the smash.
Slice and Dice the Onions & Pickles: Take your small white onion. You have a couple of options here: you can slice it super thinly into delicate rings, which will soften beautifully on the hot sandwich, or you can finely dice it for a more integrated flavor throughout. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even caramelize half of it in advance for an incredible depth of sweetness! Next, ensure your dill pickle chips are well-drained. Nobody wants a soggy “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese,” so pat them dry with a paper towel if necessary.
Whip Up the Special “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” Sauce: If you’re going for the full experience, and I highly recommend you do, let’s make that sauce! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a tiny pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and beautifully blended. Taste it and adjust any seasonings to your liking – maybe a little more relish for tang, or another dash of Worcestershire for umami. Cover it and set it aside in the fridge so the flavors can meld. This sauce is a game-changer for your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese”!
Get Your Cheese and Bread Ready: Arrange your 12 slices of American cheese and 6 slices of cheddar or Monterey Jack near your cooking station. You want these to be easily accessible as things will move quickly once the patties are cooking. Now, let’s talk about the bread. Choose a sturdy, thick-cut bread like brioche, sourdough, or Texas toast. These breads stand up wonderfully to the moist, juicy components of our “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” without getting soggy. Take your softened butter or mayonnaise and spread a generous, even layer on one side of each of the 12 bread slices. This buttered or mayo-ed side will be the exterior of your grilled cheese, destined for that glorious golden-brown crisp. Set these aside.
Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, mix together your kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is going to be your secret weapon for seasoning those patties right after they hit the hot griddle. Having it pre-mixed saves precious seconds.

Smashing and Cooking the Patties for Your Grilled Cheese

Now, this is where the magic truly happens and we create those incredibly flavorful, crispy-edged patties that define a “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese.” The key here is intense heat and a quick cook!

Heat Your Griddle or Skillet: Place a large cast-iron griddle or a heavy-bottomed skillet (or two!) over high heat. Let it preheat for a good 5-7 minutes until it’s smoking slightly and shimmering. We want it screaming hot! This high heat is essential for achieving that beautiful, crusty sear – the famous Maillard reaction – which gives smash burgers their signature flavor. Once hot, add about 1 tablespoon of neutral oil to the griddle and spread it thinly.
Smash the Burgers: Take two of your loosely formed beef balls. Place them on the very hot griddle, making sure there’s some space between them. Immediately, using a sturdy metal spatula (a burger press or a second heavy skillet wrapped in foil works too!), firmly press down on each beef ball, flattening it into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick and larger than your bread slice. The goal is to create maximum surface area contact with the hot griddle for that amazing crust. Hold the press down for about 10-15 seconds to ensure good contact.
Season and Cook the First Side: As soon as you’ve smashed the patties, generously sprinkle the top side of each patty with your pre-mixed seasoning blend (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder). Let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the edges are visibly crispy and browned, and you can see a little crust forming around the base.
Flip and Add Cheese: Using your sturdy spatula, carefully scrape underneath each patty to release it from the griddle – don’t be afraid to get under that crispy edge! Flip them over. Immediately place one slice of American cheese on top of each patty. The residual heat will start melting the cheese beautifully. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey, and the second side has developed a nice sear.
Repeat and Set Aside: Transfer the cooked and cheesed patties to a plate and cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm. Repeat steps 7 through 9 with the remaining beef balls, smashing and cooking two at a time until all six patties are done and topped with a slice of melted American cheese. You want these patties hot and ready for assembly.

Assembling the Ultimate “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese”

With our perfectly smashed and cheesed patties ready, it’s time to bring all these delicious components together for our incredible “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese.” This is where the layers of flavor truly begin to build!

Prepare Your Grilling Station: Lower the heat on your griddle or large skillet to medium-low. You want gentle heat for the grilled cheese phase to ensure the bread gets golden and crispy without burning, and the cheese melts thoroughly inside. If your griddle is still blazing hot from the smash burgers, give it a minute or two to cool down slightly, or wipe it down carefully with a paper towel (held by tongs!) and add a fresh slick of oil if needed.
Start Building Your First Sandwich Base: Take two slices of your prepared bread, buttered/mayo-ed side down. On the non-buttered side of one slice, place one slice of American cheese and one slice of cheddar (or Monterey Jack). The cheese acts as a barrier and helps to really bind everything together once it melts.
Layer on the Smash Burger Patties: Carefully place two of your cheesed smash burger patties directly on top of the cheese slices on the bread. The patties should be slightly larger than the bread, giving you that satisfying overhang. The residual heat from the patties will also help kickstart the melting of the bottom cheese layer.
Add Your Flavorful Toppings: Now for the delicious additions! Generously spoon a dollop or two of your special “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” sauce over the patties. Don’t be shy – this sauce is a star! Next, scatter a good amount of your thinly sliced or diced white onions over the sauce and patties. Finally, arrange a few dill pickle chips on top. These layers add crunch, tang, and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the richness of the beef and cheese.
Seal the Deal with More Cheese and Bread: Place another slice of American cheese on top of the pickles and onions. This top layer of cheese acts as a second binding agent and ensures ultimate meltiness throughout the sandwich. Finally, gently place the second slice of bread on top, buttered/mayo-ed side up, completing your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” masterpiece. Give it a very gentle press to help everything settle.

Grilling Your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” to Golden Perfection

With our “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” expertly assembled, it’s time for the grand finale: grilling it to that coveted golden-brown, crispy perfection with a truly gooey, molten interior. Patience and a watchful eye are your best friends here.

Place on the Griddle: Carefully transfer your assembled “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” sandwich onto the preheated griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. If you’re making multiple sandwiches, make sure not to overcrowd the griddle, as this can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Give each sandwich ample space.
Apply Gentle Pressure: Once the sandwich is on the griddle, gently press down on it with a spatula. You don’t want to squish all the delicious fillings out, but a light, even pressure helps ensure full contact with the hot surface and promotes an even, golden crust. This also helps to compress the sandwich slightly, making it easier to eat and ensuring the layers meld together beautifully.
Cook the First Side: Let the “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” cook for approximately 3-5 minutes on the first side. Keep a close eye on it! You’re looking for that beautiful, deep golden-brown color on the bread. The exact timing will depend on your griddle’s heat and the type of bread you’re using. Don’t rush this step – a perfectly toasted exterior is crucial for the “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” experience. You might even hear the gentle sizzle of the butter or mayo crisping up, a delightful sound that tells you you’re on the right track.
Flip and Cook the Second Side: Once the first side is gorgeously golden, carefully flip the “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” over using your spatula. Now, cook the second side for another 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches the same magnificent golden-brown hue. While the second side is cooking, the internal components are getting wonderfully hot, and those layers of cheese are truly melting into an irresistible, molten pool, fusing the entire “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” into one cohesive, delicious unit. If you’re worried about the cheese not fully melting, you can sometimes place a lid over the skillet for the last minute or two, creating a steamy environment that helps melt everything through.
Check for Perfection: Your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” is ready when both sides are a rich, golden brown, crispy to the touch, and you can see delicious melted cheese oozing slightly from the edges. This oozing cheese is the tell-tale sign of a perfectly cooked grilled cheese. The internal temperature of the beef should be well above 160°F (71°C), although with such thin patties, they cook through quickly.

Finishing Touches and Serving Your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese”

The moment of truth has arrived! You’ve successfully created an unbelievably satisfying “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese.” Here’s how to ensure it’s presented and enjoyed at its absolute best.

Rest Your Masterpiece: Once your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” is perfectly golden and gloriously gooey, carefully remove it from the griddle. Place it on a cutting board and let it rest for just 1-2 minutes. This short resting period is important for a couple of reasons: it allows the internal components to settle, prevents all the juicy goodness from immediately spilling out when you slice it, and slightly cools the sandwich so you don’t burn your tongue on that first eager bite!
Slice and Admire: Using a sharp serrated knife, slice your “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” diagonally. This classic grilled cheese cut isn’t just for aesthetics; it provides a better grip and exposes all those magnificent, melty layers within – the crispy beef, the multiple cheeses, the tangy pickles, and the zesty sauce. Take a moment to admire your culinary creation! The cross-section of a “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” is a thing of beauty.
Serve Immediately and Enjoy: Transfer your glorious “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” halves to a plate. Serve it immediately, while it’s still hot and the cheese is beautifully molten. You can offer extra “Smash Burger Grilled Cheese” sauce on the side for dipping, and perhaps a few more dill pickle chips if desired. This dish is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, crispy fries, or even a cup of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience. Prepare for delighted sighs and messy faces – that’s how you know it’s truly amazing!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is one of the most magnificent culinary mash-ups you’ll ever encounter. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience, a revolution in comfort food that takes two beloved classics and marries them in a way that feels utterly natural and undeniably brilliant. If you’ve been looking for that one dish that perfectly bridges the gap between a hearty burger and the nostalgic joy of a grilled cheese, then your quest ends here. This isn’t just a recommendation; it’s an enthusiastic declaration: you simply must try this.

Why is this recipe a non-negotiable addition to your cooking repertoire? Because it delivers on every single front. Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly toasted, buttered bread giving way to a cascade of gloriously melted cheese. But wait, there’s more! Nestled within that cheesy embrace is a perfectly seared, juicy smash burger patty, its edges caramelized and crispy, bursting with savory flavor. The contrasting textures and harmonizing flavors are simply out of this world. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and just savor every single bite. It’s robust, it’s comforting, and it’s surprisingly easy to master. I promise you, once you taste the sheer genius of a Smash Burger Grilled Cheese, your perception of both burgers and grilled cheese will be forever elevated.

Now, while the basic recipe is perfection in itself, I always encourage a little culinary adventure! The beauty of this dish lies in its incredible versatility. For serving suggestions, you can never go wrong with a classic. Think a generous side of crispy, golden French fries, perhaps seasoned with a sprinkle of truffle salt for an elevated touch, or a generous heap of sweet potato fries for a different twist. A vibrant, tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness, as can a simple side salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette. And don’t forget the pickles! Crisp dill pickle spears are an absolute must for cutting through the savory goodness and adding a delightful zing.

Feeling a bit more experimental? Let’s talk variations! This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity. Instead of just cheddar, why not try a blend of cheeses? Pepper Jack will give you a pleasant kick, Swiss offers a nutty complexity, and a sharp Gruyère can add a sophisticated touch. For extra indulgence, throw in some crispy bacon strips, caramelized onions, or even a couple of pickled jalapeño slices for a fiery crunch. A fried egg, runny yolk and all, tucked inside is a game-changer for brunch or a late-night craving. And don’t forget the sauces! A dollop of your favorite secret burger sauce, a spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy BBQ sauce can elevate each bite even further. Experiment with different types of bread too; sourdough adds a lovely tang, while a sturdy rye can introduce a whole new flavor profile.

Seriously, I cannot stress this enough: you absolutely have to give this recipe a try. It’s more than just food; it’s an instant mood-lifter, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a culinary triumph waiting to happen in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to an epic meal, the Smash Burger Grilled Cheese is designed to impress and delight. Once you’ve made it, don’t keep the deliciousness to yourself! I would love, love, love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic? Did you go wild with variations? What were your favorite additions or serving suggestions? Share your photos, your tips, and your triumphs in the comments below or tag me on social media. Let’s create a community of Smash Burger Grilled Cheese aficionados! Happy cooking, and even happier eating!