
11 Chef Tricks for Better Cast-Iron Smash Burgers at Home
You need an 80/20 beef blend, a screaming hot cast-iron skillet, and a heavy press to achieve that perfect, crispy lacy crust.
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Senior Culinary Editor
Sarah has spent fifteen years perfecting the science of the sear, tracking over 500 distinct patty-to-bun ratios to find the ultimate equilibrium. Her work has been featured in major culinary journals, where she uses rigorous testing benchmarks to elevate home cooking. She believes that a burger isn't just a meal; it’s a data-driven pursuit of perfection that honors the legendary standards set by Brooklyn’s finest institutions.

You need an 80/20 beef blend, a screaming hot cast-iron skillet, and a heavy press to achieve that perfect, crispy lacy crust.

You bake the perfect brioche burger bun by balancing butter content with high-protein flour to create…

You make it by blending short rib and brisket, shaping thick patties, and searing them in cast iron.