Hey guys! Ever craved that perfectly crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible smash burger? Well, today we're diving headfirst into the world of Oklahoma smash burgers, and we're doing it on the Blackstone griddle. Trust me, once you try this, you'll be hooked. Let's get started!

    What Makes Oklahoma Smash Burgers So Special?

    Oklahoma smash burgers are not just your average burgers; they're a culinary experience. The magic lies in the smashing technique and the simple yet effective ingredients. Instead of forming thick patties, we use small balls of ground beef and smash them directly onto a hot griddle. This creates an incredibly thin patty with maximum surface area for that delicious Maillard reaction – the browning and crisping that gives the burger its signature flavor. The edges become beautifully caramelized and crispy while the center remains juicy and tender. The traditional Oklahoma smash burger is served on a soft bun with thinly shaved onions smashed directly into the beef as it cooks, along with a couple of pickle slices and maybe some mustard. The beauty is in the simplicity, allowing the quality of the beef and the technique to shine.

    Now, why the Blackstone griddle? This flat-top cooking surface is perfect for smash burgers because it provides even heat distribution and ample space to cook multiple burgers at once. The flat surface ensures maximum contact between the patty and the heat, resulting in that perfectly crispy crust. Plus, the griddle's edges contain all the delicious rendered fat and juices, creating a flavorful environment for the burgers to cook in. It's a game-changer, trust me. And you know, the best part? Clean-up is a breeze! Just scrape it down, oil it up, and you're ready for the next cookout. Whether you're a seasoned griddle master or a newbie, the Blackstone is your best friend for achieving smash burger perfection. So grab your spatula, and let's get smashing!

    Ingredients You'll Need

    Before we fire up that Blackstone, let's gather our ingredients. The beauty of Oklahoma smash burgers is their simplicity, so you don't need a laundry list of items. Here's what you'll need:

    • Ground Beef: The star of the show! We're talking about 80/20 ground beef. That fat content is crucial for flavor and keeping the burgers juicy. Don't skimp on this! You want that beautiful, rich beefy taste.
    • Onions: Thinly shaved or sliced. Yellow or white onions work best. These get smashed into the patties as they cook, adding a sweet and savory flavor.
    • Buns: Soft and squishy potato buns or brioche buns are ideal. They provide a nice contrast to the crispy patties.
    • Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles. These add a tangy crunch that complements the rich beef.
    • Mustard: Yellow mustard is the classic choice. It adds a zesty kick.
    • Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning. Freshly ground black pepper is always a plus.
    • Oil or Butter: For greasing the Blackstone griddle. This prevents the burgers from sticking and helps them develop a beautiful crust. I prefer using a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or canola oil, but butter adds a richness that's hard to beat.

    Optional toppings:

    • Cheese: American cheese is the traditional choice, but cheddar, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack can be delicious.
    • Bacon: Because, well, bacon! Crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory element.
    • Smash Sauce: A tangy, creamy sauce that takes your burger to the next level. We'll share a simple recipe later.

    Step-by-Step Guide: Smashing Perfection

    Alright, let's get down to business. Here's how to make Oklahoma smash burgers on your Blackstone griddle:

    1. Prep Your Ingredients:

      • Divide the ground beef into small balls, about 2-3 ounces each. Don't overwork the meat; just gently form them.
      • Thinly shave or slice your onions. The thinner, the better – they'll cook faster and meld beautifully with the beef.
      • Set out your buns, pickles, mustard, and any other toppings you're using.

    2. Preheat Your Blackstone:

      • Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a good sear, but not so hot that the burgers burn.
      • Add a thin layer of oil or butter to the griddle surface. Make sure it's evenly coated.

    3. Smash the Burgers:

      • Place a ball of ground beef on the hot griddle.
      • Immediately place a handful of shaved onions on top of the beef.
      • Using a sturdy metal spatula (a smash burger press works great too!), press down firmly on the beef and onions, smashing them into a thin patty. The thinner, the crispier!
      • Hold the spatula firmly for a few seconds to ensure good contact with the griddle.

    4. Cook the Burgers:

      • Let the burgers cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until a crispy crust forms on the bottom. Don't move them around too much; let them do their thing.
      • Use your spatula to scrape under the edges of the burger and flip it over.
      • If you're adding cheese, now's the time! Place a slice of cheese on top of each patty and let it melt.
      • Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the burger is cooked to your liking. Remember, these are thin patties, so they'll cook quickly.

    5. Assemble and Serve:

      • Remove the burgers from the griddle and place them on your prepared buns.
      • Add pickles, mustard, and any other desired toppings.
      • Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness!

    Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Smash Burger

    • Don't Overcrowd the Griddle: Work in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the griddle temperature from dropping too much.
    • Use a Sturdy Spatula: A thin, flexible spatula won't give you enough leverage to smash the burgers properly. A sturdy metal spatula or a smash burger press is essential.
    • Don't Be Afraid of the Heat: Medium-high heat is key to getting that crispy crust. Just keep an eye on the burgers to prevent burning.
    • Experiment with Toppings: While the classic Oklahoma smash burger is simple, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Bacon, different cheeses, and special sauces can all add a unique twist.
    • Keep it Simple: The beauty of smash burgers is their simplicity. Don't overcomplicate things with too many ingredients or fancy techniques.
    • Clean Your Blackstone After Each Use: This will help maintain its performance and prevent buildup.

    Smash Sauce Recipe

    Want to take your smash burgers to the next level? Try this simple and delicious smash sauce:

    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
    • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

    Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This sauce is tangy, creamy, and adds the perfect finishing touch to your smash burgers.

    Variations on the Oklahoma Smash Burger

    Okay, guys, while the classic Oklahoma smash burger is amazing, let's talk about some ways to mix things up. Feel free to experiment and find your own favorite variations!

    The Spicy Smash

    Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your ground beef mixture for a little kick. Top with pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo. This variation is perfect for those who like a little heat.

    The Bacon Cheeseburger Smash

    Everything is better with bacon, right? Add a couple of slices of crispy bacon to your smash burger along with your favorite cheese. A smoky BBQ sauce would also be a delicious addition.

    The Mushroom and Swiss Smash

    Sauté some sliced mushrooms in butter and garlic until they're tender and golden brown. Top your smash burger with the mushrooms and a slice of Swiss cheese. This variation is savory and comforting.

    The Guacamole Smash

    Add a scoop of fresh guacamole to your smash burger for a creamy and flavorful twist. Top with some pico de gallo and a squeeze of lime juice for a truly refreshing burger.

    The Breakfast Smash

    Top your smash burger with a fried egg, a slice of bacon, and a drizzle of maple syrup. This variation is perfect for brunch or a breakfast-for-dinner kind of night.

    Why You Need a Blackstone for Smash Burgers

    Let's be real, you can make smash burgers in a cast iron skillet on your stovetop, but the Blackstone takes things to a whole new level. Here's why:

    • Even Heat Distribution: The Blackstone provides consistent heat across the entire surface, ensuring that your burgers cook evenly and develop a beautiful crust. No more hot spots or uneven cooking!
    • Large Cooking Surface: The Blackstone's large cooking surface allows you to cook multiple burgers at once, which is perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, you can cook your onions and other toppings right alongside the burgers.
    • Easy Cleanup: The Blackstone is incredibly easy to clean. Just scrape it down with a metal spatula, wipe it with a paper towel, and add a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. Done and done!
    • Versatility: The Blackstone isn't just for smash burgers. You can cook everything from pancakes to stir-fries to fajitas on it. It's a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that will quickly become your go-to.
    • **The

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