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Crispy Smash Burger Sliders Recipe Easy for a Crowd with Special Sauce

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These crispy smash burger sliders feature thin, caramelized patties with a tangy special sauce, perfect for quick, crowd-pleasing meals and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 slices cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 12 slider buns (soft and slightly sweet, potato buns recommended)
  • Pickle slices (thinly sliced dill pickles)
  • Thinly sliced red onions (optional)
  • Leafy lettuce or baby spinach (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the special sauce: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle juice, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder until smooth. Cover and refrigerate to let flavors meld while you prep the burgers (about 5 minutes).
  2. Divide the beef: Place 1.5 pounds of ground beef in a large bowl. Divide into 12 equal portions, approximately 2 ounces each. Handle gently to avoid compressing the meat too much (about 5 minutes).
  3. Preheat the skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes. Test by sprinkling a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
  4. Form and smash the patties: Place one beef portion in the skillet. Using a sturdy metal spatula, press down firmly to flatten into a thin patty about 3-4 inches in diameter. Hold for 10-15 seconds to create a crust, then release. Repeat with remaining portions in batches to avoid overcrowding (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
  5. Season the patties: Immediately sprinkle salt and pepper on each patty while cooking to help create a flavorful crust.
  6. Flip and add cheese: After 2-3 minutes, when edges look crispy and brown, flip each patty. Add a slice of cheddar on top and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through but still juicy.
  7. Toast the buns: While the last batch cooks, split slider buns and toast them face down in a separate pan or under a broiler until golden and slightly crisp. Optionally, brush with melted butter for extra flavor.
  8. Assemble the sliders: Spread a generous dollop of special sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy patty on top, add pickle slices, thin red onion, and lettuce if using. Cap with the top bun.
  9. Serve immediately: Enjoy hot, straight from the skillet, with extra special sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches to keep skillet hot and maintain crispy crust. Wait a few extra seconds before flipping if patties stick. Make special sauce ahead and chill for better flavor. Toast buns separately to avoid sogginess. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Vegetarian options include smashed black bean or lentil patties.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, sliders, special sauce, crispy burger, crowd-pleaser, quick dinner, easy recipe, game day food

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