Crispy-Edged Smash Burgers

There’s nothing quite like a juicy, crispy-edged smash burger, and the Big Green Egg takes this classic to a whole new level. Using a high-fat beef blend and the Big Green Egg’s plancha or cast iron griddle, you can create perfectly seared, flavour-packed patties in minutes. These burgers are quick to make, with just a few simple seasonings and your favourite toppings for a restaurant-quality burger experience at home.

To achieve that iconic caramelised crust, set up your Big Green Egg for direct cooking at 204°C (400°F) and preheat the Cast Iron Plancha Griddle. The high heat from the cast iron creates a golden, crispy crust on each patty, locking in the beef’s natural juices and flavour. Use beef mince with a fat content between 15–20% for the juiciest and most flavourful burgers.

Press each patty down with the Cast Iron Grill Press to create a thin, even sear. Cook the patties for 60–90 seconds per side to achieve a perfectly crispy crust without overcooking the inside. For added richness, top with cheddar cheese slices during the final minute, allowing them to melt over the hot patties.

The Big Green Egg’s ability to maintain high, even heat ensures each burger is cooked to perfection with those sought-after crispy edges. The plancha’s even heating and cast iron construction make it ideal for pressing burgers directly on the grill, locking in juices and intensifying the beef flavour in every bite.

A smash burger is all about creating thin beef patties with double the crispy crust. By cooking two smaller patties instead of one larger one, you maximise the caramelised, crispy edges that make smash burgers irresistible.

These burgers can be topped simply with caramelised onions and cheese or customised with your favourite toppings.

 

EGG Set Up	Recommended Charcoal	EGG Target Temperature	Cooking Time
Direct	Oak & Hickory	200°C (400°F)	15 Minutes

 

 

Equipment EGG Mitt BBQ Glove Cast Iron Plancha Griddle Cast Iron Grill Press BBQ Tongs Silicone Big Green Egg 50 Year Anniversary Cutting Board Premium 100% Natural Oak & Hickory Lump Charcoal

Ingredients 450 g ground beef with a fat content of 15–20% 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 tbsp olive oil (for the onions) 1 tbsp garlic powder Salt and pepper, to taste 8 slices cheddar cheese (optional) Toppings Your favourite toppings: lettuce tomato pickles sauce

 

Method

Caramelise the Onions

• Set up your Big Green Egg for direct cooking and stabilise the temperature at 204°C (400°F).
• Place the Cast Iron Plancha Griddle on the Egg and preheat.
• Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the griddle. Toss the sliced onions in and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–15 minutes until they are soft and caramelised. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Prep the Burgers

• Season the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Divide the beef into 8 even portions (approximately 55 g each) and gently roll into balls.

Cook the Smash Burgers

• Lightly oil the preheated plancha griddle or use a small amount of butter for extra flavour.
• Place one ball of beef onto the hot griddle and press it down firmly using the Cast Iron Grill Press, flattening it into a thin patty. Repeat with the remaining portions.
• Cook the patties for 60–90 seconds, or until the juices bubble through the surface. Flip the patties once, scraping underneath with a spatula to retain the crispy, caramelised crust.

Add the Cheese

• If using cheddar, place a slice on top of each patty after flipping. Allow the cheese to melt for 1–2 minutes while the patty finishes cooking.

Assemble and Serve

• Spread your favourite condiments on the buns. Add the patties, caramelised onions, and any toppings you love—lettuce, tomato, pickles, or a zesty burger sauce work brilliantly.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, crispy perfection straight off the Egg.

Tips for the Best Smash Burgers

• For the ultimate crust, ensure the griddle is properly preheated before cooking the patties.
• Avoid overhandling the meat; the less you work it, the juicier the burgers will be.
• Caramelised onions can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

Perfect for casual dinners or backyard barbecues, these smash burgers with caramelised onions are a guaranteed hit!