February Recipe of the Month: Smash Burgers

Get ready to make the ultimate smash burgers—crispy on the edges, juicy in the center, and packed with flavor. Inspired by a hearty, down-home style, these smash burgers are perfect for any burger lover.

Ingredients

• 1 lb River Road Pasture Ground Beef – Sourced from cows raised on high-quality grass, forages, and corn for that rich, flavorful taste.

• Kosher salt, Black Pepper, seasoning of choice

• 4 Hamburger Buns

• 2 tbsp butter – For toasting the buns.

• 4 slices Cheese – For that classic melty goodness

• Toppings – Shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, thinly sliced red onions, and your favorite burger sauce

Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or flat-top griddle

• Large metal spatula or burger press

• Parchment paper (optional, to prevent sticking)

Instructions

1. Prep the Beef: Divide the River Road Pastures Ground Beef into eight equal portions (2 oz each). Loosely shape each portion into a ball—don’t pack them tightly, as this keeps the patties tender. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to keep the fat cold, which helps with the smashing process.

2. Heat the Skillet: Preheat your cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s sizzling. A hot surface is key to getting that signature smash burger crust. Test it by flicking a drop of water—if it sizzles and evaporates instantly, you’re ready.

3. Toast the Buns: While the skillet heats, spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place them butter-side down on the skillet or a separate pan and toast until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside on a rack or plate.

4. Smash the Patties: Place 1-2 beef balls on the hot skillet (don’t overcrowd—work in batches if needed). Immediately cover each ball with a small piece of parchment paper (optional) and use your spatula or burger press to smash it down firmly into a thin patty, about ¼-inch thick. Press hard for 10-15 seconds to maximize contact with the skillet. Remove the parchment.

5. Season and Cook: Sprinkle the smashed patties generously with seasoning of choice.. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them, until the edges are crispy and browned, and you see juices pooling on top. This crust is where the magic happens!

6. Flip and Cheese It: Use the spatula to scrape under each patty and flip it, keeping all that crispy goodness intact. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the second side is browned. The thin patty cooks fast, so keep an eye on it.

7. Assemble the Burgers: Spread your favorite burger sauce on the bottom bun. Stack the cheesy patty, then add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and red onion (or your preferred toppings). Cap it with the top bun.

8. Serve: Enjoy your smash burgers hot off the skillet, paired with fries, a cold drink, or even a scoop of ice cream for dessert if you’re feeling indulgent!

Tips for the Perfect Smash Burger

• Cold Beef is Key: Keep the beef chilled until it hits the skillet to ensure the fat renders properly and creates that crispy edge.

• Don’t Skimp on the Smash: The harder you press, the more surface area contacts the heat, giving you that irresistible crust.