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Crispy Sheet Pan Smash Burgers Recipe Easy Homemade with Special Sauce and American Cheese

crispy sheet pan smash burgers - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy-edged smash burgers baked on a sheet pan with melty American cheese and a tangy special sauce, perfect for an easy, mess-free homemade burger experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef (80/20)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices American cheese (preferably Kraft)
  • 6 potato buns, lightly toasted
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • Special Sauce:
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Optional toppings: thinly sliced red onions, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, pickles

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the special sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate.
  3. Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions (about 4 ounces or 113 grams each) and loosely roll each into a ball without compacting the meat.
  4. Arrange the beef balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Using a flat spatula or the bottom of a heavy pan, press down firmly on each ball until about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick to create thin edges.
  6. Season each patty evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Bake the patties in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
  8. About 2 minutes before done, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and return to the oven to melt.
  9. While the burgers finish baking, spread softened butter on the cut sides of the potato buns and toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
  10. Assemble the burgers by spreading a generous dollop of special sauce on the bottom bun, adding the cheesy patty, then layering optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles before capping with the top bun.
  11. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the crispy edges and melty cheese.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the sheet pan to avoid steaming the patties; press firmly and evenly for crispy edges. Cheese should be added near the end to keep it melty. For dairy-free or gluten-free options, substitute vegan cheese and gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Reheat leftovers in oven or skillet to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, sheet pan burgers, crispy burgers, homemade burgers, special sauce, American cheese, easy burger recipe