Print

Flavorful Double Smash Burger Stack Recipe with Easy Umami Sauce

double smash burger stack - featured image

A quick and easy double smash burger with crispy edges, juicy center, and a secret umami sauce that adds a savory depth. Perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying burger cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt, to taste (preferably kosher salt)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil (for the griddle or pan)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 soft hamburger buns (brioche or potato buns)
  • 2 sharp cheddar cheese slices
  • Thinly sliced red onions, a handful
  • Crisp iceberg lettuce leaves
  • Pickles, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Umami Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Divide the Beef: Portion the ground beef into 4 equal balls, about 4 oz (113 g) each. Handle gently to avoid packing too tightly.
  3. Heat Your Pan: Place a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Wait until oil shimmers but does not smoke.
  4. Smash the Patties: Place two beef balls in the hot pan. Using a spatula or burger press, firmly smash each ball into thin patties about 1/4 inch thick. Listen for the sizzle.
  5. Season & Cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously on the patties. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip carefully.
  6. Add Cheese: Immediately place a slice of cheddar on each patty after flipping. Let it melt while the second side cooks, about 2 minutes.
  7. Repeat: Remove the first two patties to a plate and keep warm. Repeat smashing and cooking with the remaining two beef balls.
  8. Toast the Buns: In the same pan, toast the buns cut side down until golden and slightly crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
  9. Assemble the Burger Stack: Spread a generous spoonful of umami sauce on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, a smashed patty, pickles, and onion slices. Stack the second patty on top, add more sauce, then crown with the top bun.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender. Smash firmly once and let the patty cook undisturbed for crispy edges. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Rest patties off heat before stacking to lock in juices. Umami sauce tastes better after resting in fridge for a few hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: double smash burger, umami sauce, crispy burger, easy burger recipe, quick dinner, backyard barbecue, juicy burger