Classic Diner Smash Sliders

Classic Diner Smash Sliders ingredients

• Burger Patties & Assembly
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 4 count slider buns
• 4 count American cheese slices
• 8 count dill pickle slices
• 1/4 cup white onion
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Special Sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika

How to make Classic Diner Smash Sliders

1. First, prepare the special sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Divide the 1 lb ground beef into 4 equal, loose balls, about 4 ounces each. Handle the meat gently to avoid compacting it, which can make patties tough. Finely dice the 1/4 cup white onion and slice your dill pickles, setting them aside for quick assembly.
3. Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over high heat until it just begins to smoke, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the hot surface and spread it evenly to create a non-stick cooking area.
4. Place two beef balls onto the hot skillet, ensuring there is ample space between them. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper over each beef ball and, using a sturdy metal spatula or burger press, smash each ball down firmly and quickly into a thin, flat patty, about 1/4-inch thick. You should hear a strong sizzle, indicating good crust development.
5. Season the top of each smashed patty generously with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
6. Cook for 90 seconds to 2 minutes without disturbing the patties, allowing a deep brown, crispy crust to form on the bottom. While the patties cook, lightly toast the cut sides of the 4 slider buns on a clean part of the griddle or in a separate pan until golden brown and fragrant, then remove them.
7. Using a sturdy spatula, carefully scrape under each patty to release it from the griddle, making sure to lift all the delicious crust. Flip the patties. Immediately place one slice of American cheese on top of each cooked patty.
8. Cook for another 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey. The internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Remove patties from the griddle.
9. To assemble, spread a generous spoonful of the prepared special sauce on the bottom half of each toasted slider bun. Place a cheesy smash patty on top of the sauce, then add a sprinkle of the finely diced white onion and 2 dill pickle slices. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately for the best experience.

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