Description
BBQ Pepperoni Smash Burger
A BBQ-infused burger with crispy pepperoni, sharp cheddar, and caramelized flavors—this one’s a game-changer!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
4 slices cheddar cheese
10 slices pepperoni
2 brioche buns
2 tbsp BBQ sauce
2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
Season & Shape: Mix beef with seasonings and form 2 patties.
Cook Patties: Grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, topping with cheese.
Toast Buns: Butter and toast the buns in a skillet.
Crisp Pepperoni: Fry in a dry pan until crispy.
Assemble: Spread BBQ sauce on the bun, add a cheesy patty, crispy pepperoni, another patty, and more BBQ sauce.
Serve: Enjoy with crispy onion rings!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect BBQ Pepperoni Smash Burger.
- Prepare the Meat: In a bowl, gently combine 1 lb of ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for juiciness) with 1 tsp smoked paprika and ½ tsp black pepper. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender. Divide into four equal balls, not patties yet.
- Smash the Patties: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place a ball of meat onto the hot surface. Immediately use a sturdy spatula and a piece of parchment paper to firmly press down, smashing it into a thin, even patty. Repeat for all balls. Season the tops generously with salt.
- Cook and Cheese: Cook for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip, immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Crisp the Pepperoni: While patties cook, place 10 slices of pepperoni in a separate dry pan over medium heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they curl and become crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Toast the Buns: Spread 2 tbsp of butter on the insides of 2 brioche buns. Toast in the pan or skillet until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your burger experience with these pairings. Classic crispy onion rings or thick-cut steak fries are perfect for dipping in extra BBQ sauce. For a lighter side, a tangy coleslaw or a simple pickle spear cuts through the richness. Serve with an ice-cold lager, a bold IPA, or a classic milkshake.
How-to Summary
Season beef, form into balls, and smash into thin patties on a hot surface. Cook until crusty, top with cheddar, and melt. Simultaneously, crisp pepperoni in a dry pan and butter-toast the buns. Assemble by spreading BBQ sauce on the bun, stacking a cheesy patty, crispy pepperoni, a second patty, and more sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while Swiss or provolone offer a milder, melty alternative.
What if I don’t have a griddle or cast-iron skillet? A regular non-stick frying pan will work. Ensure it’s very hot before adding the meat to achieve a good sear.
How can I make this recipe spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mix, use a spicy BBQ sauce, or top the burger with pickled jalapeños.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time? It’s best to cook immediately after shaping. Pre-forming patties can lead to overhandling and a denser texture. Keep the meat balls cold until ready to smash.
Is there a way to make the pepperoni even crispier? For maximum crisp, microwave the pepperoni slices between paper towels for 30-60 seconds. They will render fat and become chip-like.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Beef: This develops too much protein structure, resulting in a tough, dense patty. Mix seasonings gently until just combined.
- Not Smashing Thinly or Immediately: Press the ball as soon as it hits the hot surface to maximize contact and crust formation.
- Moving the Patty Too Soon: Let it cook undisturbed for the first 2 minutes to allow a proper sear to form. If it sticks, it’s not ready to flip.
- Using Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 fat content. The fat is essential for flavor, juiciness, and creating the signature smash burger crust.
Conclusion
The BBQ Pepperoni Smash Burger is a masterclass in combining simple, bold flavors with fantastic texture. The technique of smashing the patty creates an unbeatable caramelized crust that pairs perfectly with the salty, crispy pepperoni and sweet BBQ sauce. It’s a decadent, restaurant-quality burger that’s surprisingly straightforward to master at home. Once you try this method, it may just become your only way to make burgers.
