Garlic Knot Smash Burger

If you love burgers and you love garlic bread, then this garlic knot smash burger is about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a juicy, crispy edged beef patty wrapped in melty cheddar cheese, all tucked inside a buttery garlic knot bun that is soft on the inside and golden on the outside. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

The smell alone is enough to make you pause for a second. Warm garlic butter, toasted bread, sizzling beef, and creamy sauce all coming together in one bite. It is bold, messy in the best way, and absolutely worth every bite.

The Ultimate Mashup of Two Comfort Food Favorites

There is something magical about combining two comfort food classics. Smash burgers are known for their crispy edges and juicy centers, while garlic knots are famous for their buttery, garlicky softness. Put them together and you get layers of flavor and texture that feel indulgent and satisfying.

The bun is not just a holder here. It becomes part of the experience. Every bite delivers buttery garlic flavor before you even hit the beef.

From Diner Classic to Viral Sensation

Smash burgers started in classic American diners, where cooks would press ground beef onto a hot griddle to create a deeply caramelized crust. Garlic knots, on the other hand, have roots in Italian American pizzerias, where leftover dough was tied into knots, baked, and brushed with garlic butter.

This burger blends those traditions into something playful and modern. It feels nostalgic but also a little over the top, in the best way possible.

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

Before we jump into the cooking process, let me tell you why this one is a total game changer.

Versatile: Perfect for weekend dinners, backyard cookouts, or indulgent weeknight meals.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients like ground beef and basic condiments keep it affordable.

Quick and Easy: Smash burgers cook in minutes on a hot skillet.

Customizable: Adjust the sauce, cheese, or seasoning to match your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy beef and buttery garlic bread win over just about everyone.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the garlic butter and sauce ahead of time.

Great for Leftovers: Extra patties can be reheated and used in wraps or bowls.

Pro Tips for Smash Burger Perfection

Getting that crispy crust is everything, so here are a few insider tips.

1. Use high heat so the beef sears instantly.
2. Do not overwork the ground beef, loosely shape it before smashing.
3. Press firmly once, then leave it alone to develop a crust.
4. Toast the buns lightly before assembling for extra structure.
5. Season right before cooking for the best flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools

You do not need much, but a few tools make it easier.

Heavy Skillet or Griddle: Cast iron works best for creating a crispy crust.

Sturdy Spatula: For smashing and flipping the patties.

Small Mixing Bowl: To prepare the garlic butter and sauce.

Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping garlic and parsley.

Ingredients You Will Need For Garlic Knot Smash Burger

Each ingredient plays a specific role in building flavor and texture.

1. Ground Beef: 1 pound, 450 grams, preferably 80 percent lean. Creates juicy, flavorful patties.
2. Cheddar Cheese Slices: 4 slices, about 80 grams total. Melts beautifully over the hot beef.
3. Garlic Knot Buns: 4 buns, baked and ready. Provide buttery, garlicky flavor and soft texture.
4. Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup, 60 grams. Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
5. Ketchup: 2 tablespoons, 30 grams. Adds sweetness and tang.
6. Mustard: 1 tablespoon, 15 grams. Brings sharpness and balance.
7. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Infuses the butter and enhances the bun flavor.
8. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Adds freshness and color.
9. Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons, 45 grams, melted. Brushed onto buns for richness.
10. Salt: 1 teaspoon, divided. Enhances all the flavors.
11. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds gentle heat.

Simple Substitutions If Needed

If you want to switch things up, here are easy swaps.

Ground Beef: Use ground turkey for a lighter option.

Cheddar Cheese: Try provolone or mozzarella for a milder melt.

Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter sauce base.

Fresh Parsley: Dried parsley can work in a pinch, use half the amount.

Spotlight on the Star Components

Ground Beef: The key to a perfect smash burger is fat content. An 80 percent lean blend keeps it juicy while allowing those crispy edges to form.

Garlic Butter: Brushing the buns with garlic infused butter transforms them from simple bread into something unforgettable.

Let’s Cook This Garlic Knot Smash Burger

Now that everything is prepped, and you can already imagine that first bite, let’s dive into the process.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to create the sauce. In another small bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly brush the inside of the garlic knot buns with the garlic butter mixture and set aside.
4. Assemble the Dish: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Place each portion onto the hot skillet and smash firmly with a spatula. Season immediately with salt and black pepper.
5. Cook to Perfection: Cook for about 2 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip once, place a slice of cheddar on each patty, and cook another 1 to 2 minutes until cheese melts.
6. Finishing Touches: Toast the garlic knot buns lightly in the skillet for about 1 minute until golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Spread sauce on the bottom bun, add the cheesy smash patty, top with the upper bun, and serve immediately while hot and melty.

Texture and Flavor That Hit Every Note

The crispy edges of the beef provide deep savory flavor from caramelization. The melted cheddar adds creamy richness that drips slightly over the sides. Then you get that soft, buttery garlic knot bun that soaks up just enough juice without falling apart.

Each bite is a balance of crispy, juicy, soft, and creamy. It is indulgent but not overwhelming.

Helpful Cooking Tips

A few small tweaks can make your burger even better.

• Use parchment paper between the spatula and beef when smashing to prevent sticking.
• Do not press the patty again after flipping.
• Let the burger rest for a minute before serving.
• Keep buns warm so the cheese stays melty.

What to Avoid for the Best Results

Even simple burgers have a few pitfalls.

• Do not overcrowd the pan, cook in batches if needed.
• Avoid lean beef, it can dry out quickly.
• Do not overcook after flipping, the patty is thin and cooks fast.
• Skip cold buns, they cool the patty too quickly.

Nutritional Snapshot

Servings: 4 burgers
Calories per serving: 620

Note: These are approximate values.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make Ahead and Storage Guide

You can prepare the sauce and garlic butter up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheat patties in a hot skillet for best texture. Assemble fresh for the best experience.

How to Serve for Maximum Impact

Serve with crispy fries, a simple salad, or even roasted vegetables. For an extra indulgent touch, brush a little more garlic butter on top of the bun right before serving.

A side of pickles adds a bright contrast to the richness.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Chop leftover patties and use them in quesadillas. Slice and add to breakfast sandwiches. Crumble into a salad bowl with extra sauce for a hearty lunch.

Extra Tips for Flavor and Ease

Let your skillet fully preheat before adding beef. Warm your buns slightly before assembling so everything stays hot longer.

Always season generously, beef loves salt.

Make It a Showstopper

Sprinkle extra chopped parsley on top of the bun for color. Stack the burger high and serve on a simple plate so all the golden cheese and crispy edges are visible.

Presentation matters, and this burger looks as good as it tastes.

Variations to Try

1. Add caramelized onions for sweetness.
2. Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
3. Add crispy fried onions for crunch.
4. Mix a little smoked paprika into the sauce.
5. Top with sliced tomatoes for freshness.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I cook this on a grill?

Yes, use a flat griddle plate over the grill for best results.

Q2: What if I do not have garlic knot buns?

Use soft brioche buns and brush them with garlic butter.

Q3: How thin should I smash the patty?

Very thin, about 1/4 inch thick for crispy edges.

Q4: Can I make smaller sliders?

Yes, divide the beef into smaller portions and adjust cooking time.

Q5: Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, freeze raw portions separated by parchment paper.

Q6: What cheese melts best?

Cheddar works beautifully, but American style cheese melts very smoothly.

Q7: Can I reduce the butter?

You can slightly reduce it, but the garlic flavor will be milder.

Q8: Is this recipe spicy?

It is mild, but you can add hot sauce to the sauce if desired.

Q9: Can I add vegetables?

Yes, lettuce and tomato work well.

Q10: How do I keep it from getting soggy?

Toast the buns and assemble just before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Knot Smash Burger is everything you want in a comfort meal, crispy, juicy, buttery, and completely satisfying. It brings together diner style technique with bold garlic bread flavor in a way that feels indulgent and fun. Once you try it, you will understand why it is worth every bite.

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