Description
Cheesy Double Smash Burger Melt
Get ready for this ultimate comfort food—cheese-laden double smash burgers with crispy bread!
Ingredients:
½ lb ground beef
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
2 slices rye bread
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp chipotle mayo
Salt, garlic powder
Instructions:
Smash beef balls flat in a skillet and season with garlic powder.
Add cheese to patties and cover to melt.
Toast rye bread in butter until golden.
Spread chipotle mayo on the bread, layer patties, and press gently.
Serve with crispy fries or onion rings.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Cheesy Double Smash Burger Melt.
- Divide the ½ lb of ground beef into two equal balls. Do not overwork the meat.
- Heat a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Place the beef balls in the dry skillet. Immediately press them down firmly and evenly with a flat spatula or a burger press to create thin, wide patties. Season the tops generously with salt and garlic powder.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving, until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Flip both patties. Immediately place two slices of sharp cheddar cheese on each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid or a metal bowl for 1-2 minutes to fully melt the cheese.
- While the cheese melts, butter the rye bread slices on one side. In a separate pan or on a griddle, toast the bread butter-side-down over medium heat until golden and crisp.
- Spread chipotle mayo on the unbuttered side of the toasted bread slices.
- Using your spatula, carefully stack both cheesy patties onto one slice of bread. Top with the second slice of bread, mayo-side down.
- Press the sandwich together gently and slice in half to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This burger melt is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it correctly elevates the experience. Serve it with a side of crispy shoestring fries, beer-battered onion rings, or a simple dill pickle spear to cut through the richness. For a lighter option, a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well. A classic milkshake, cold craft beer, or sparkling lemonade are perfect beverage pairings.
How-to Summary
To make a Cheesy Double Smash Burger Melt: smash two beef balls thin in a hot skillet, season, and cook until crusty. Flip, add cheddar cheese, and cover to melt. Concurrently, butter-toast two slices of rye bread. Assemble by spreading chipotle mayo on the toast, stacking the double cheeseburgers in between, and pressing gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. While sharp cheddar provides excellent flavor and melt, American cheese is classic for its ultra-creamy melt. Pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss are also fantastic options.
Why is my burger patty not getting a crispy crust?
The most common reason is the skillet wasn’t hot enough before adding the meat. Ensure it’s preheated over medium-high heat. Also, avoid moving the patty once it’s smashed down.
What’s the best beef fat ratio for smash burgers?
An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal. The higher fat content renders during the high-heat smash, creating incredible flavor and the desired crispy, lacy edges.
Can I make this with a single patty?
Yes, for a lighter version, use one ¼ lb beef ball and two slices of cheese. The cooking time will be slightly shorter.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Ensure your toasted bread is golden and crisp, creating a barrier. Also, assemble the burger just before serving. The chipotle mayo layer on the bread also helps protect it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overhandling the Meat: Forming the beef into tight, compact balls makes for tough burgers. Gently shape them without squeezing.
- Smashing Too Late: You must smash the ball immediately as it hits the hot pan. Waiting allows it to start cooking into a lump.
- Using Cold Meat: Take the beef out of the fridge for 10-15 minutes before cooking. Ice-cold meat is harder to smash thinly and evenly.
- Flipping Multiple Times: Flip only once, after a proper crust has formed. Constant flipping prevents browning.
- Using Thick Bread: Dense, thick bread can overwhelm the patties. Use a sturdy but thinly-sliced bread like rye or sourdough.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Double Smash Burger Melt is the ultimate fusion of a classic diner burger and a toasted, buttery sandwich. Mastering the simple technique of smashing the patty thin in a searing-hot skillet is the key to achieving that signature crispy edge and juicy interior. Paired with melted sharp cheddar and chipotle mayo on rye, this recipe delivers maximum flavor and texture with minimal ingredients. It’s a decadent, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to share your creation!
