Patty with Secret Sauce

🔥 Smashing Patty with Secret Sauce Recipe
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe recreates that classic diner-style burger — thin, crispy edges, juicy center, melty cheese, and a creamy tangy sauce that ties it all together. You’ll never want to buy takeout again!

🥩 Ingredients
For the Smash Patties:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp butter or neutral oil (for cooking)
4 burger buns, toasted
4 slices American or cheddar cheese

Optional Toppings:

Sliced onions (grilled or raw)
Pickles
Lettuce
Tomato slices


🧡 Secret Burger Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
1 tsp white vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Pinch of paprika

👉 Mix everything in a small bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors blend beautifully.

🍳 Directions


Prepare the beef:
Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls (don’t pack tightly). Keep chilled until ready to cook.


Preheat your griddle or skillet:
Heat a cast iron pan or griddle over high heat until very hot. Add a dab of butter or oil.


Smash the patties:
Place a beef ball on the hot surface, cover it with parchment paper, and press down firmly with a heavy spatula or burger press until about ¼ inch thick.
Pro Tip: Don’t move it once it’s smashed — let that crust form!


Season:
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper right after smashing.


Cook:
Let it sear for 1½–2 minutes until golden and crispy edges form. Flip, top with cheese, and cook another minute.


Toast the buns:
Lightly butter and toast them on the skillet until golden brown.


Assemble the burger:
Spread secret sauce on both buns, layer lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using), add the cheesy patty, and top with the other bun.



⭐ Pro Tips

Use high heat: That’s the key to a flavorful crust.
Don’t press after flipping: You’ll squeeze out all the juices.
Chill the sauce: The flavor improves as it sits.