Smash Burger Salad Recipe for a Fresh, Flavorful Meal

Looking for a fresh twist on the classic smash burger? Enter the smash burger salad — a delightful combination of all the juicy, crispy flavors of a traditional smash burger served atop a bed of crisp, vibrant greens.

This recipe is perfect for those who crave the indulgent taste of a burger but want to keep things light and nutritious. With a mix of perfectly seared burger patties, melted cheese, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or want a quick, flavorful dinner, this smash burger salad is quick to make and endlessly customizable. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies without sacrificing flavor.

Ready to smash your salad game? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smash burger salad offers the best of both worlds: the rich, savory taste of a smash burger paired with the freshness of a salad. It’s an ideal option if you’re craving something hearty but want to avoid the carb overload of a traditional burger bun.

The combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing makes every bite a delight.

Plus, this salad is highly versatile. You can easily customize the toppings or swap out ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.

It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy a burger experience without the mess or heaviness, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a casual get-together.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, spinach mix)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (optional)
• For the dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp pickle juice (from the pickle jar)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large cast iron skillet or griddle
• Spatula, preferably metal for smashing burgers
• Mixing bowls for salad and dressing
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and pickle juice. Whisk until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside in the fridge to chill and let flavors meld.
2. Preheat your skillet or griddle: Heat over medium-high heat until very hot. This is essential for getting that crispy, caramelized crust on your smash burgers.
3. Form the beef into loose balls: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, gently rolling each into a ball without compacting too much.
4. Smash the burgers: Place a ball of beef on the hot skillet, then immediately press down firmly with a spatula to flatten it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Hold pressure for 10 seconds to ensure a good sear. Repeat for all patties, cooking 2 at a time if your skillet is smaller.
5. Season and cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the smashed patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them to get a crispy crust. Flip carefully.
6. Add cheese: Once flipped, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and patties are cooked through but still juicy.
7. Assemble the salad base: In a large bowl or on individual plates, layer mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, pickle slices, diced avocado, and shredded carrots. Toss gently to combine.
8. Top with burger patties: Place the cheesy smash burger patties right on top of the salad.
9. Drizzle dressing: Spoon or drizzle the prepared dressing generously over the salad and burgers.
10. Add optional crispy onions: Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for an extra crunch if desired.
11. Serve immediately: Enjoy your delicious smash burger salad fresh, while the patties are warm and juicy.

Tips & Variations

“For the crispiest smash burgers, make sure your skillet is very hot before smashing the patties. Use a sturdy spatula and press firmly!”

• Make it vegetarian: Swap beef patties for grilled portobello mushrooms or black bean patties for a meatless alternative.
• Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Cheese options: Try pepper jack, Swiss, or blue cheese crumbles instead of cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Extra veggies: Add cucumbers, radishes, or roasted corn for added texture and color.
• Buns on the side: Serve with toasted burger buns for those who want a more traditional experience.
• Meal prep friendly: Keep the patties, salad, and dressing separate until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This smash burger salad is fantastic as a standalone meal thanks to its balanced mix of protein, veggies, and fats. However, you can complement it with a few sides depending on the occasion:

• Sweet potato fries or baked potato wedges
• Classic coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
• Grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime
• Pickle spears and extra dipping sauces like spicy mayo or ranch

Pairing this salad with a chilled beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer can enhance the overall dining experience.

Conclusion

The smash burger salad is an exciting and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a smash burger while keeping things on the lighter side. It’s a perfect blend of juicy, cheesy meat and fresh, crisp vegetables, all tied together with a tangy homemade dressing.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier dinner option or a quick lunch that doesn’t compromise on taste, this recipe fits the bill beautifully.

With easy-to-follow steps and plenty of room for customization, this salad can become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try tonight and savor the satisfying crunch and savory bites in every forkful.

For more tasty recipes to complement your smash burger salad, check out our Grilled Vegetable Sandwich, Classic Caesar Salad, and Loaded Buffalo Chicken Wrap.

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