Ultimate Kalmes Smash Burger Seasoning: 2-in-1 Recipe

Kalmes Famous Smash Burger Seasoning Recipe

A great smash burger starts with a deeply browned crust, juicy beef, and savory flavor. This smash burger seasoning recipe pairs a simple skillet technique with Kalmes Famous 2-in-1 Steak Seasoning & Meat Tenderizer. Have your buns, cheese, and toppings ready before you start so you can serve each burger hot from the pan.

The crisp crust comes from pressing loosely formed beef into a hot cooking surface. For ground beef, you do not need to rely on the tenderizer to change the burger's texture. Use the seasoning for flavor and follow the package guidance for the amount.

Ingredients for 4 Burgers

• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef, divided into 4 loosely formed balls
• Kalmes Famous 2-in-1 Steak Seasoning & Meat Tenderizer, to taste and according to package guidance
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• 4 slices American cheese
• Lettuce, onion, pickles, and burger sauce, optional

How to Make Smash Burgers

1. Prepare the beef and toppings: Divide the beef into four loose balls without packing them tightly. Keep the beef chilled until you are ready to cook. Toast the buns and arrange the toppings before the patties go into the pan.
2. Heat the cooking surface: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Use ventilation and avoid heating an empty pan until it smokes heavily. Leave enough room to flatten and flip each patty comfortably.
3. Smash and season: Place a beef ball on the skillet and immediately press it thin with a sturdy spatula or burger press. Season the exposed surface with Kalmes Famous 2-in-1, following the package guidance.
4. Brown, scrape, and flip: Let a deep brown crust form, then scrape underneath the patty to release it and flip. Add a slice of cheese. Cooking time varies with patty thickness and pan heat; check each burger with a thermometer and cook ground beef to 160°F.
5. Build and serve: Transfer the cooked patties to toasted buns. Add pickles, onion, lettuce, or sauce, then serve while the cheese is melted and the edges are crisp.

Tips for a Better Smash Burger Crust

Cook in batches rather than crowding the skillet. Each patty needs direct contact with the cooking surface and enough room for a spatula to slide underneath. Smash once, immediately after the beef hits the pan, then leave the patty alone to brown. Repeated pressing later in cooking can squeeze out juices.

A stiff spatula helps you lift the browned crust without tearing the burger. If your spatula bends easily, use a sturdy burger press for the initial smash and a firm-edged spatula for flipping. Keep raw-beef utensils and plates separate from the ones used for cooked burgers.

Choosing Your Smash Burger Seasoning

Keep the seasoning simple so the browned beef, melted cheese, and toasted bun can shine. Start with the package guidance rather than guessing a heavy coating, especially when adding salty toppings such as cheese and pickles.

Ready to make your next batch? Shop Kalmes Famous 2-in-1 Steak Seasoning & Meat Tenderizer, browse more Kalmes Foods recipes, or return to Kalmes Foods for more family-table inspiration.