If you’re craving a burger that’s juicy, cheesy, and packed with that perfect crispy edge, you’re going to love this Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe. This burger captures that iconic fast-food flavor right in your own kitchen, effortlessly combining thin, smashed beef patties with melted cheddar, tangy pickles, and a trio of tasty sauces. It’s a quick, hands-on way to enjoy a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet homemade, effortlessly hitting all the right notes from start to finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, straightforward ingredients you can easily find, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the classic taste and texture that make this burger so irresistible. From juicy beef to melted cheese and crisp buns, every component combines to form that perfect smashburger bite.
- Beef Patties (4 oz each, 80% lean): The star ingredient, chosen for juiciness and ideal fat content for caramelization.
- Cheddar Cheese Slices: Melts beautifully over the patties providing rich, tangy flavor.
- Soft Burger Buns: Lightly toasted for a buttery crisp exterior and soft interior.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture to balance the savory beef.
- Ketchup: Classic burger sweetness and tanginess in every bite.
- Yellow Mustard: Offers a slight sharpness that complements the ketchup.
- Onion (thinly sliced): Adds a bright crunch and subtle bite.
- Pickle Slices (optional): For that essential tangy snap and texture contrast.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance the natural beef flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: For cooking the patties to perfection without sticking.
How to Make Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. A hot surface is key to achieving that signature crispy edge on your smashed patties, so don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Season the Patties
Lightly season each beef patty with salt and pepper. Simple seasoning lets the natural beef flavor shine through while building the foundation for the delicious crust that will develop when you smash them.
Step 3: Smash the Patties
Place the patties on the hot skillet and immediately press down firmly with a spatula to create a thin patty. This smashing action exposes more surface area to the heat, creating those irresistibly crispy edges we all love. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until edges caramelize beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Flip
Flip each patty carefully and quickly place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Let everything cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes so the cheese melts perfectly while the patties finish cooking through.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the cheese melts, slice your buns and toast them in the same skillet until lightly golden and crispy. Toasting adds texture and helps prevent sogginess once the condiments and patties are layered.
Step 6: Assemble the Burger
Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard evenly on the bottom half of each toasted bun. This flavorful sauce trio adds creaminess and tang that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
Step 7: Add Patties and Toppings
Stack the cheesy beef patties on the sauced buns, then top with thinly sliced onions and pickles if you like that extra tang and crunch. Finish with the top bun to complete the iconic double smasher look.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
This burger is best enjoyed hot off the skillet, when the cheese is melty and the patties are still juicy with crispy edges. Grab your favorite napkin—you’re in for a treat!
How to Serve Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe
Garnishes
Onions and pickles are the classic garnishes here—they provide crunchy texture and a pop of acidity that cuts through the richness. Feel free to add shredded lettuce or tomato slices if you want a touch of freshness. Just don’t overdo it; the patty and sauces are already the stars.
Side Dishes
This burger pairs beautifully with crispy fries, whether shoestring or crinkle cut. If you want something lighter, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the meal nicely. For a real Sonic vibe, try onion rings or tots on the side to keep things fun and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, turn your Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe into a build-your-own burger bar. Lay out patties, buns, cheeses, and toppings separately so everyone can customize their perfect smashed creation. Serving on small plates with toothpicks also makes these burgers perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep buns separate to avoid sogginess, and wrap them in foil or plastic wrap to preserve freshness.
Freezing
These smashed patties freeze well if you want to save some for quick meals later. Flash freeze patties individually on a tray, then transfer them to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing assembled burgers to keep buns from getting mushy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the patties gently in a skillet or oven, and toast your buns fresh if possible. Adding a slice of cheese during reheating revives that melty, luscious texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the crisp edges intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for its sharp, melty qualities, feel free to experiment with American, pepper jack, or even Swiss cheese to match your taste preferences.
What’s the secret to getting the perfect crispy edge?
The key is a hot cooking surface and pressing the beef down immediately after placing it on the skillet. This maximizes contact with the heat, creating that delicious caramelized crust.
Can I make this vegetarian?
While this recipe is designed for beef patties, you could try plant-based burger patties with the same smashing technique. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary depending on the product.
Should I use fresh onions or cooked onions?
Thinly sliced raw onions add a crisp bite and sharpness that complements the burger well. If you prefer, caramelized onions can bring a sweeter, richer flavor, but they’re not traditional for this style.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Cooking patties ahead and assembling fresh when ready makes it a convenient option for busy nights. Keep components separate and assemble just before eating to enjoy the best textures.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about making a favorite fast-food classic right at home, and this Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe nails that experience perfectly. It’s quick, fun, and incredibly tasty with every crispy, cheesy bite. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find this smashburger becoming your new go-to for burger nights!
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Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger recipe replicates the iconic fast-food favorite with two thin, crispy smashed beef patties layered with melted cheddar cheese, tangy condiments, and fresh toppings, all served on toasted soft buns. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any burger lover craving a delicious, restaurant-style experience at home.
Ingredients
Beef Patties
- 2 (4 oz) beef patties (80% lean)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- Pickle slices (optional)
Buns and Condiments
- 2 soft burger buns
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil to ensure a hot cooking surface.
- Season and place patties: Season the beef patties generously with salt and pepper, then place them on the hot skillet to begin cooking.
- Smash the patties: Immediately press each patty down with a spatula to create thin, crispy edges. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes so they develop a caramelized crust.
- Flip and add cheese: Flip the patties carefully and immediately top each with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties are fully cooked.
- Toast the buns: While the patties cook, toast the burger buns in the same skillet for about 1 minute until they are lightly golden and crispy.
- Spread condiments: Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard evenly on the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
- Assemble the burgers: Place the cheesy patties on the prepared buns. Add sliced onions and pickle slices if desired for extra flavor.
- Serve: Cover with the top buns and serve the burgers immediately while hot and fresh.
Notes
- Smashing the patties thin creates the signature crispy edges and intensifies the beef flavor.
- Using a hot skillet or griddle is key to achieving the perfect caramelization.
- Feel free to add additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or bacon according to your preference.
- Serve with your favorite side such as fries or a salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
