Name: Smashburger Buffalo Burger
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces butter; 4 ounces Frank’s Red Hot sauce; 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 teaspoons ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons seasoned salt; 1 1/2 pounds ground chuck; 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles; 4 hamburger buns brioche style; 1 cup lettuce (shredded, optional); 1 tomato sliced

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Every summer, the aroma of grilling meat fills the air, and it sparks a special kind of nostalgia for me. One dish that always stands out is the Smashburger Buffalo Burger. It reminds me of backyard barbecues with friends, laughter echoing, and the excitement of sinking my teeth into a juicy, flavorful burger. I love how the heat from the grill transforms the meat, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. And let’s not forget the kick from the buffalo sauce that adds a zing to every bite! This burger is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
36 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Blender, Wooden Spoon

What Sets This Smashburger Buffalo Burger Apart

What makes the Smashburger Buffalo Burger truly special? Here are some reasons I adore it:

1. The Sizzle Factor

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sound of meat sizzling on a hot grill. It’s an auditory sign that good food is on the way! The high heat creates a lovely crust, locking in those precious juices that keep each burger moist.

2. Authentic Flavor

The secret to replicating that iconic smashburger flavor lies in the ingredients. Using Frank’s Red Hot sauce ensures that the buffalo sauce has that authentic kick. I believe it’s the only choice to capture that true buffalo flavor, making your burger unforgettable.

3. Customizable Toppings

Whether you prefer it simple with just lettuce and tomatoes or loaded with toppings, the Smashburger Buffalo Burger lets you get creative. You can mix and match your favorites to suit your taste buds. Feeling adventurous? Add some spicy jalapeños or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a creamy contrast!

4. Quick and Easy

On busy summer nights, this burger comes to the rescue. It’s quick to prepare and cook, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine and good company. Just 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious burgers ready to devour!

5. Perfect for Gatherings

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or even a casual weeknight dinner. Everyone loves burgers, and the excitement of watching them cook on the grill adds to the fun. You’ll be the hero of your next cookout!

6. Family-Friendly

Kids love burgers, and this recipe is a great way to get them involved in the kitchen. They can help with assembling their burgers, choosing their toppings, and even grilling with supervision. It’s a wonderful way to bond over food!

Everything You Need for Smashburger Buffalo Burger

The ingredients for the Smashburger Buffalo Burger are simple yet powerful. Each item plays a crucial role in creating that unforgettable flavor profile that gets everyone coming back for seconds. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy blue cheese, and perfectly grilled beef is pure magic on a bun.

4 ounces butter: Adds richness to the buffalo sauce and helps create a crispy burger.
4 ounces Frank’s Red Hot sauce: The star ingredient in the buffalo sauce, providing heat and flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami flavors, making the burger even tastier.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the meat and enhancing flavors.
2 teaspoons ground black pepper: Provides a mild heat and depth of flavor.
2 teaspoons seasoned salt: Adds a mix of flavors that elevate the burger seasoning.
1 1/2 pounds ground chuck: The foundation of the burger, offering juiciness and rich flavor.
1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles: Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the spicy sauce.
4 hamburger buns brioche style: Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for holding all the toppings.
1 cup lettuce shredded, optional: Adds crunch and freshness to the burger.
1 tomato sliced: A juicy addition that balances the spiciness of the burger.

Step by Step Guide for Smashburger Buffalo Burger

Getting started on your Smashburger Buffalo Burger is easy and enjoyable. Follow these steps to create a burger that will impress everyone!

First, let’s prepare the hot sauce. In a saucepan, combine the butter, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the butter is melted and everything is well blended. This sauce is crucial for that buffalo flavor, so set it aside to let the flavors meld.
Next, we need to prepare our burger seasoning! In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, ground black pepper, and seasoned salt. This combination will season the meat wonderfully and enhance the burger’s flavor.
Now it’s time to shape the burgers. Divide the ground chuck into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball; this helps to keep the juiciness when cooking.
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. This is important because we want that perfect sear on our burgers.
Once the grill is hot, place the meat portions on it. Use a spatula or burger press to smash the meat down into the grill. Don’t be shy here! The pressure creates a nice crust.
While the meat is cooking, generously sprinkle the burger seasoning onto the patty. After about 3 to 4 minutes, check the bottom—once it’s browned, flip the patty over.
After flipping, season the top side of the burger with more seasoning. Allow it to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness.
While the burgers are finishing up, brush the brioche buns with some extra butter and toast them on the grill until golden brown. This adds both flavor and texture.
Now comes the fun part—assembling your burger! Start with the bottom bun, place the burger patty on top, and drizzle about 1 to 2 teaspoons of the hot sauce over the patty.
Next, sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles on top for that delicious creamy element. If you’d like, add the shredded lettuce and sliced tomato to finish it off.
Finally, place the top bun on and get ready for a mouthwatering bite of your Smashburger Buffalo Burger.

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature matters: Ensure your grill is preheated. A hot surface is key for achieving that caramelized crust.
Don’t press down: Once you smash the burger, don’t press down again while cooking! This keeps the juices intact.
Resting is important: Let the cooked burgers rest for a minute before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Experiment with flavors: Try different types of cheese or additional toppings to customize your burger.

Recipe Variations about Smashburger Buffalo Burger

Exploring variations of the Smashburger Buffalo Burger can be as fun as making the original. Here are some ideas:

Switch up the sauce: Try different hot sauces for varied heat levels. Sriracha or a garlic hot sauce can add unique flavor profiles.
Cheese choices: While blue cheese is classic, you can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for a different twist.
Add veggies: Include grilled onions or jalapeños for added flavor and crunch.
Make it a double: For an extra indulgence, stack two patties on top of each other for a double smashburger experience.
Try alternative toppings: Avocado slices or pickles can add interesting flavors and textures.

Serving Options for Smashburger Buffalo Burger

When it comes to serving your Smashburger Buffalo Burger, the possibilities are endless. Here are some great ideas:

Classic sides: Pair your burger with crispy French fries or potato wedges for a timeless meal.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can cut through the richness of the burger and add a crunchy texture.
Grilled corn: Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect summer side that complements the flavors of the burger.
Summer barbecues: This burger is ideal for cookouts and gatherings. Set up a burger bar where guests can customize their toppings!
Picnics: The Smashburger Buffalo Burger is easy to pack and enjoy outdoors. Just remember to bring some napkins!
Game day: Serve these burgers at your next football watch party. They are sure to be a hit!

FAQ

The Smashburger Buffalo Burger stands out due to its unique preparation method and flavor profile. Instead of simply grilling, the beef is ‘smashed’ onto the grill to create a crispy outer crust while keeping the inside juicy. Another defining feature is the spicy buffalo sauce, made with Frank’s Red Hot, which gives it a distinct kick that sets it apart from traditional burgers. Topped with creamy blue cheese, this burger offers a delightful contrast to the heat, making it a memorable dish!

Absolutely! While blue cheese is a classic topping for the Smashburger Buffalo Burger, you can easily customize it to your liking. Feel free to substitute it with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack. You can even skip the cheese altogether if you prefer a lighter burger. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

When serving the Smashburger Buffalo Burger, consider pairing it with sides that complement its bold flavors. Classic options include crispy French fries or hand-cut potato wedges, which are always a crowd-pleaser. For a refreshing touch, consider adding coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob. These sides provide a wonderful balance to the burger’s heat and richness, making for a complete meal!

To store leftovers of your Smashburger Buffalo Burger, allow the cooked burgers to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the grill or in the microwave until warmed through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Conclusion

The Smashburger Buffalo Burger is an indulgent treat that combines juicy beef, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s the perfect recipe for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. I encourage you to try this burger at home—you won’t regret it! Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the deliciousness of this special burger with family and friends.