Hey guys! Today, we're diving into the delicious world of Oklahoma smash burgers cooked to perfection on a Blackstone griddle. If you're a burger enthusiast, get ready for a treat! This recipe will guide you through creating juicy, flavorful smash burgers with those irresistible crispy edges that everyone loves. Trust me; once you try these, you'll never look at burgers the same way again.

Why Oklahoma Smash Burgers?

So, what makes Oklahoma smash burgers so special? Well, it all comes down to the technique. Unlike regular patties, smash burgers are, well, smashed! This creates maximum contact with the hot griddle surface, resulting in a beautiful, caramelized crust. The thinness of the patty also ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly, giving you a juicy center and crispy edges in every bite. The beauty of the Oklahoma smash burger lies in its simplicity. We're talking about basic ingredients – ground beef, onions, salt, and pepper – yet the result is an explosion of flavor and texture that's hard to beat. The key is the smashing technique combined with the high heat of the Blackstone griddle, which creates that signature crust we all crave.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we fire up the Blackstone, let's gather our ingredients. Here's what you'll need to make the best Oklahoma smash burgers:

• Ground Beef: The star of the show! Aim for an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) for optimal flavor and juiciness. The fat content is crucial for keeping the burgers moist and flavorful during the smashing and cooking process. Using leaner beef might result in a drier burger, so don't skimp on the fat!
• Onions: Thinly sliced. Yellow or white onions work great. The onions are not just a topping; they're smashed right into the burger, adding a sweet and savory flavor that melds perfectly with the beef.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning. Freshly ground black pepper is always a plus!
• Buns: Potato buns, brioche buns, or your favorite burger buns. Make sure they're soft and can hold up to the juicy patty and toppings.
• Cheese: Optional, but highly recommended! American cheese is a classic choice for its meltiness, but cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist.
• Toppings: Get creative! Pickles, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard, mayo – the possibilities are endless. Think about what flavors and textures you enjoy on a burger and go from there.

Equipment

Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving smash burger perfection:

• Blackstone Griddle: This is where the magic happens. The flat, even surface of the Blackstone is perfect for creating that crispy crust. Make sure your griddle is clean and well-seasoned before you start.
• Griddle Spatula: A thin, wide spatula is essential for smashing and flipping the burgers. Look for one with a sturdy handle and a sharp edge.
• Burger Press (Optional): While not strictly necessary, a burger press can help you achieve a consistent smash every time. It ensures that the patty is evenly flattened and makes the process a bit easier.
• Parchment Paper: Cut into squares. This prevents the burger from sticking to the spatula when you smash it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these steps to create the perfect Oklahoma smash burgers on your Blackstone griddle:

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by thinly slicing your onions. The thinner, the better! You want them to almost melt into the burger as it cooks. Set them aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Blackstone

Turn your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create a good sear, but not so hot that the burgers burn. A good way to test the temperature is to flick a few drops of water onto the griddle. If they sizzle and evaporate quickly, you're good to go.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Divide the ground beef into equal portions (about 2-3 ounces each). Gently roll each portion into a loose meatball. Don't pack the meat too tightly, as this can make the burgers tough.

Step 4: Smash the Burgers

Place a meatball on the hot griddle. Cover it with a piece of parchment paper. Using your griddle spatula or burger press, firmly press down on the meatball, smashing it as thin as possible (about ¼ inch thick). The thinner, the crispier!

Step 5: Add Onions and Season

Immediately sprinkle a generous amount of sliced onions on top of the smashed patty. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don't be shy with the seasoning; it's what gives the burger its flavor.

Step 6: Cook and Flip

Let the burger cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until a crispy crust forms on the bottom. Use your spatula to carefully scrape under the burger and flip it over. The onions should now be stuck to the patty.

Step 7: Add Cheese (Optional)

If you're using cheese, add it to the burger during the last minute of cooking. This will give it time to melt and get nice and gooey.

Step 8: Toast the Buns

While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the buns on the griddle. This adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy.

Step 9: Assemble and Serve

Remove the burgers from the griddle and place them on the toasted buns. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Oklahoma smash burgers!

Tips for the Perfect Smash Burger

• Don't Overwork the Meat: Handle the ground beef gently to avoid making the burgers tough. Overworking the meat develops the gluten and results in a dense, less juicy burger.
• Use a Hot Griddle: A hot griddle is essential for creating that crispy crust. Make sure your Blackstone is preheated to medium-high heat before you start cooking.
• Smash Thin: The thinner the patty, the crispier the edges. Don't be afraid to really smash those burgers down!
• Season Generously: Salt and pepper are your friends. Don't be shy with the seasoning, especially since the patty is thin.
• Don't Move the Burger Too Soon: Let the burger cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping. This allows a nice crust to form.
• Experiment with Toppings: While the classic Oklahoma smash burger is simple, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Try different cheeses, sauces, and veggies to find your perfect combination.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Spicy Smash Burgers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the ground beef for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Smash Burgers: Mix some minced garlic into the ground beef for a flavorful twist.
• Bacon Smash Burgers: Cook some bacon on the griddle and add it to your burger along with your other toppings.
• Mushroom and Swiss Smash Burgers: Sauté some mushrooms on the griddle and top your burger with Swiss cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Oklahoma smash burgers are fantastic on their own, but they're even better when paired with some delicious sides. Here are a few ideas:

• French Fries: A classic burger side. Crispy fries and a juicy smash burger are a match made in heaven.
• Onion Rings: Another great option for a crunchy, savory side.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy side that complements the richness of the burger.
• Potato Salad: A classic picnic side that's perfect for a summer barbecue.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweeter and healthier alternative to regular fries.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the ultimate guide to making Oklahoma smash burgers on a Blackstone griddle! With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can create burgers that are bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you're a seasoned griddle master or a newbie, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up your Blackstone, gather your ingredients, and get ready to smash some burgers! You won't be disappointed. Enjoy, and happy grilling!