Kick Ass Smash Burgers

If you've never made smash burgers at home, tonight's the night. Thin, crispy-edged patties with a caramelized crust, melty cheese, and a heavy hand of our Kick Ass Rub — a smoky, savory, boldly spiced Southwest blend that takes backyard burgers from good to absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the smash burgers:

• 1½ lbs 80/20 ground beef
• 2 teaspoons Dam Spice Co. Kick Ass Rub (plus more for seasoning)
• 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• Butter, for the buns

For toppings:

• Shredded iceberg lettuce
• Sliced tomato
• Thinly sliced white onion
• Pickles
• Your favorite sauce — smash sauce recipe below

Kick Ass Smash Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon pickle juice
• ½ teaspoon Kick Ass Rub

Instructions

1. Make the smash sauce: Whisk all sauce ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Form the balls: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal loose balls (about 6 oz each). Do not overwork the meat — loose balls smash better and stay juicy.
3. Heat the pan: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot. Add a small pat of butter.
4. Smash: Place a beef ball in the skillet and immediately smash it flat with a heavy spatula or burger press, pressing firmly for 10 seconds. Season the top generously with Kick Ass Rub.
5. Cook: Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip once, add a slice of cheese, and cook for 1 more minute.
6. Toast the buns: Butter and toast the buns in the same pan until golden.
7. Build and serve: Spread smash sauce on both buns. Layer with lettuce, tomato, onion, patty, and pickles. Serve immediately.

Tips

• 80/20 is non-negotiable: The fat is what creates those crispy, lacey edges. Leaner beef won't smash the same way.
• Don't move the patty: Leave it alone after smashing until you see the edges go brown and crispy.
• Double up: Stack two thinner patties for the ultimate double smash burger.
• Also great with Kick Ass on: Steaks, ribs, fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables.

Grab your Kick Ass Rub and make burger night something to talk about.