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Juicy Smash Burger Sliders Recipe Easy Homemade Lunchbox Idea

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These juicy smash burger sliders feature a crispy, caramelized crust and tender center, perfect for quick lunches or casual get-togethers. The special sauce adds a tangy, creamy punch that complements the flavorful beef patties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Kosher salt, to season
  • Fresh ground black pepper, to season
  • 8 slider buns or mini brioche buns
  • 4 slices American or cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter, softened
  • Special Sauce:
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) apple cider vinegar or pickle juice
  • Pinch of garlic powder
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Thinly sliced red onions
  • Leaf lettuce or baby spinach
  • Tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Make the Special Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or pickle juice), and a pinch of garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and set aside in the fridge.
  2. Prep the Beef: Divide 1 pound of ground beef into 8 equal balls (about 2 ounces each). Gently shape into loose balls without overworking. Season both sides lightly with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper.
  3. Heat Your Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot, about 3-4 minutes, until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates immediately.
  4. Toast the Buns: Spread softened butter on the inside of each slider bun. Place cut-side down on the skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  5. Cook the Patties: Place 2-3 beef balls in the skillet spaced apart. Immediately press each ball firmly with a spatula to flatten to about ¼-inch thick. Hold pressure for 10 seconds. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy. Flip patties, add cheese slices on top, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and meat is cooked through but juicy.
  6. Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous spoonful of special sauce on the bottom bun, add the cheesy patty, then top with optional sliced red onions, lettuce, and tomato. Finish with the top bun.
  7. Serve or Pack: Serve immediately for best flavor or pack in a lunchbox with an ice pack to keep fresh until mealtime.

Notes

Use cold beef balls before smashing to hold together better. Press patties firmly but briefly (about 10 seconds) to create a crispy crust without squeezing out juices. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain high heat. Toast buns with butter to prevent sogginess. Make special sauce ahead to enhance flavor. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Ground turkey can be used but will be less juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, sliders, lunchbox idea, homemade burgers, special sauce, quick meal, easy recipe

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