If you’ve ever found yourself craving that juicy, smash-burger goodness from Sonic, but didn’t want to leave the comfort of your home, I’ve got the solution for you. This homemade version of the Sonic Double Smasher Burger is so delicious, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Trust me, once you sink your teeth into that crispy-edged beef patty, melted cheese, and all the fixings, you’ll never look back. It’s like the perfect cheat day treat—juicy, crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is so much more than just a burger—it’s the answer to your fast food cravings that’s as easy as it is delicious. Imagine grilling up a burger in the comfort of your kitchen that rivals your favorite drive-thru meal, but without the wait. Here’s why this burger is a total game-changer:
- Versatile: Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or your weekend BBQ, this burger fits any occasion. You can even swap out the beef patty for a chicken or veggie version if that’s more your style.
- Budget-Friendly: You don’t need a long list of exotic ingredients. These burgers are made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and you likely have most of them in your kitchen already.
- Quick and Easy: From stovetop to plate in no time. No long prep times or complicated steps—just good, juicy burger goodness.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings, adjust the seasoning to your taste, or go wild with the cheese and sauces. This is your burger, your way.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Family, friends, kids—everyone’s going to love this one. It’s the kind of meal that gets requested again and again.
Ingredients in Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger
Here’s the magic of this burger—it’s got the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and cheesy, all stacked between soft, toasted buns. Let’s break it down:
- Ground Beef: The star of the show. You want to use 80/20 beef for that perfect combination of tenderness and flavor. The fat content ensures your patties are juicy and full of flavor.
- Burger Buns: Soft and lightly toasted to give your burger a nice base. Don’t skip the toasting—it adds that satisfying crunch.
- Cheese: Melted cheese is key. You can’t go wrong with American cheese for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Pickles: Adds that tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the beef.
- Lettuce: Crisp and fresh for that perfect bite.
- Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe tomatoes add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef.
- Onions: Either raw for a bite or caramelized for extra sweetness—your choice!
- Ketchup and Mustard: Classic condiments that really tie the burger together.
- Butter: For toasting those buns, of course.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this juicy masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get those crispy edges on the beef.
Form the Patties: Roll your ground beef into a ball, then flatten it slightly with your hands. You’ll be smashing these babies onto the skillet to get that crispy, caramelized crust, so don’t worry if they’re not perfect. It’s all about the smash!
Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, spread a thin layer of butter on the inside of your buns and toast them on the skillet until golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch and ensures the buns hold up to all the delicious juices.
Cook the Beef: Place the beef patties on the hot skillet and smash them down with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, making sure you get those crispy, brown edges. Add cheese slices to the patties during the last 30 seconds of cooking to let it melt beautifully.
Assemble the Burger: Now comes the fun part—building your burger! Start with the bottom bun, add your cheesy patty, and then pile on the lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions. Top it off with the other bun, and you’re good to go.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy! These burgers are best when they’re fresh and juicy, so dig in while the cheese is still melty and the patties are still crispy.
How to Serve Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger
Pair this burger with your favorite sides for the ultimate comfort meal:
- French Fries: Of course, you can’t go wrong with a side of crispy fries. Maybe even add some dipping sauces for extra fun!
- Coleslaw: A creamy slaw is the perfect contrast to the rich burger and will add a little extra crunch.
- Sweet Potato Fries: If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, sweet potato fries make an awesome side with their sweet-savory balance.
- Onion Rings: Another classic! Golden, crispy onion rings add that extra crunch factor.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Smash for Crispiness: The key to this burger’s delicious crispy edges is the “smash” technique. The more you smash, the crispier and more caramelized the patty becomes.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have one, use a cast-iron skillet. It helps create the crispy edges that make these burgers so irresistible.
- Double the Patties: For extra burger goodness, go for a double patty! It’s the perfect indulgence for a burger night.
- Leftovers: If you somehow have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on the skillet for that fresh, crispy texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
A1: Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based burger patty if you prefer. It will change the flavor slightly, but it’s still going to be delicious.
Q2: How do I make the patties crispy?
A2: The secret is in the smash! Make sure your skillet is super hot, and use a spatula to press down on the patties once they hit the pan. This helps create those perfect crispy edges.
Q3: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
A3: You can prep the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Q4: Can I freeze the patties?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the raw patties. Place parchment paper between each patty before freezing to keep them from sticking. Cook them straight from the freezer when you’re ready.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftover burgers?
A5: To reheat and keep that crispy texture, place the patty on a skillet for a minute or two until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave if you’re in a pinch, but the skillet is best for keeping the crisp.
Q6: Can I make these burgers with a non-stick pan?
A6: Yes, you can. However, a cast-iron skillet or griddle will give you the best results when it comes to crispy, golden edges.
Q7: Can I skip the butter for the buns?
A7: Technically, yes, but butter really adds a rich flavor and helps the buns get that perfect crispy texture. You can use olive oil as a substitute if you prefer.
Q8: How do I avoid dry burgers?
A8: Using 80/20 ground beef is key—it has enough fat to keep the burgers juicy. Avoid overcooking them, and make sure to add your cheese towards the end of cooking to keep them moist.
Q9: Can I add other toppings?
A9: Absolutely! Try adding bacon, avocado, or even sautéed mushrooms for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
Q10: Can I make this into a cheeseburger or double cheeseburger?
A10: Yes! Just add an extra slice of cheese in between the patties for a gooey, double-cheese experience.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a burger that’s juicy, crispy, and loaded with all your favorite toppings, this Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger is your go-to recipe. Perfect for satisfying those fast food cravings at home, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So go ahead, fire up that skillet, and get ready to dig into a burger you won’t forget. Happy cooking!
Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling / Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Skip the drive-thru and make Sonic’s famous Double Smasher Burger right at home! With perfectly smashed beef patties, melty American cheese, fresh toppings, and homemade Smasher sauce, this burger is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Smasher Sauce
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 drops Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Burger
- 4 potato buns
- 1 tablespoon softened butter
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 ground chuck preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices American cheese
- 16 refrigerated crinkle-cut round pickles (like Claussen)
- 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
Instructions
- To make the Smasher sauce, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
- Spread softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the potato buns. Place the buns cut-side down on a griddle or skillet and toast until golden brown. Set aside.
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions and form each portion into a loose ball.
- Heat a large griddle or cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Place a beef ball on the hot surface and immediately smash it very thin with a spatula or burger press. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the edges become crispy. Flip the patty, season the other side with salt and pepper, and top each patty with a slice of cheese. Cook for another 30 to 45 seconds until the cheese melts. Repeat this process with the remaining patties.
- To assemble, place a bottom bun on a plate and spread with Smasher sauce. Add 2 cheese-topped patties, followed by 4 pickle slices and a tablespoon of diced onions. Spread additional Smasher sauce on the top bun and place it on the burger. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños to the Smasher sauce or on top of the burger.
- If you prefer a leaner burger, you can use 90/10 ground beef, but the patties may not be as juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 802
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1242mg
- Fat: 43g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 98mg