If you love juicy, crispy-edged burgers that melt in your mouth and crave a fresh twist, this Smash Burgers with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine tender, perfectly smashed beef patties layered with sharp cheddar and nestled inside butter-toasted buns, all complemented by a tangy, herbaceous dill sauce that ties everything together in one unforgettable bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend hangout, this recipe brings that delicious diner-style charm straight to your kitchen.

/Imagine prompt: A clean, bright surface with a perfectly styled flat lay of smash burger ingredients arranged neatly. In one spot, a small clear bowl of creamy pale yellow mayonnaise next to a small bowl of vibrant red ketchup (or a deeper red chili sauce). Nearby, a tiny bowl of smooth, bright yellow mustard. A small dish holds finely grated light green dill pickles. Scattered lightly next to these are small piles of white onion powder, fine granulated sugar, and a mixed seasoning pile of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder—powders showing varied textures and shades of white to dark brown. A large mound of raw, rich red lean ground beef with visible marbling sits nearby, portioned into neat balls. Four golden brown hamburger buns are halved and buttered, showing a glossy surface from soft butter. Four slices of vivid orange cheddar cheese are slightly overlapping, highlighting their smooth, creamy texture. Fresh crisp green lettuce leaves are fanned out, alongside bright red tomato slices, shiny green pickle slices, and thinly sliced purple onions, all arranged artfully to add pops of color and freshness. The entire layout is balanced and airy, with natural, soft lighting that accentuates the textures and vibrant colors, casting gentle shadows. The background is a simple, clean white or light wood to keep focus on the ingredients. Styled with minimal props, emphasizing freshness and readiness for making classic smash burgers. overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity fool you. Each ingredient in the Smash Burgers with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe plays an essential role, balancing rich, savory flavors with fresh, creamy, and slightly sweet notes for the ultimate burger experience.

Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the dill sauce that adds cool richness.
Ketchup (or chili sauce): Brings a mild sweetness and tanginess to the sauce, rounding the flavors beautifully.
Mustard: Adds a gentle sharpness that cuts through the richness.
Grated dill pickles: Offers a delightful crunch and the signature dill taste that makes this sauce stand out.
Onion powder: Infuses a subtle savory depth to the sauce.
Granulated sugar: Balances all the tangy notes with a touch of sweetness.
Lean ground beef (80/20): Ideal for juicy, flavorful patties with enough fat to keep them tender.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the burger.
Garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlic warmth that complements the beef.
Black pepper: Gives the patties a little kick and aromatic heat.
Hamburger buns: Choose soft buns to contrast the crispy edges of the patties.
Butter (softened): For toasting buns to golden, buttery perfection.
Cheddar cheese slices: Melts perfectly on the patties, adding sharpness and gooey texture.
Lettuce and additional toppings: Fresh greens and optional tomatoes, pickles, or onions for crunch and brightness.

How to Make Smash Burgers with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce

Start by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, grated dill pickles, onion powder, and sugar in a medium bowl. Mix these ingredients until silky smooth, then refrigerate the sauce so the flavors marry while you prepare the burgers. This homemade sauce is the secret to making your Smash Burgers special.

Step 2: Season the Beef

In a small bowl, blend together the salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. This simple seasoning blend will elevate the natural flavor of your ground beef when applied just before cooking.

Step 3: Butter the Buns

Lightly spread softened butter on the cut sides of your hamburger buns. Toasting them in the pan later will give you a crisp, golden surface that holds up beautifully against juicy patties and sauce.

Step 4: Form and Prep the Beef Balls

Divide the ground beef into eight equal pieces, rolling each into a roughly 3-ounce ball. Keep some parchment paper squares handy—they will be your tool for smashing these balls on the skillet to an ultra-thin, crispy patty.

Step 5: Heat the Cooking Surface

Preheat a griddle or heavy cast iron skillet on high until a sprinkle of water sizzles and evaporates instantly. This high heat is crucial for achieving those signature crispy edges on your smash burgers.

Step 6: Toast the Buns

Place the buttered buns cut-side down on the hot griddle. Toast for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and irresistible. Remove them and set aside on a plate—these will wait for the hot patties to join them.

Step 7: Smash the Patties

Add the beef balls to the griddle and cover each with a square of parchment paper. Press firmly with a burger press or a heavy spatula until they are about 1/8-inch thick. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Sprinkle half of your seasoning blend over the tops while they cook.

Step 8: Cook the Patties

Let the patties cook for 90 seconds without moving. Flip them, season the other side, and cook for another 60 to 90 seconds. This quick cooking time locks in juices while crisping the edges to perfection.

Step 9: Add Cheese and Stack

Place a slice of cheddar cheese on four of the cooked patties. Then stack the remaining four patties on top of the cheese to create double-decker beauties that are bursting with cheesy goodness.

Step 10: Assemble Your Smash Burgers

Place each stacked patty onto the toasted bun bottoms and spoon generous amounts of the creamy dill sauce on top. Add crunchy lettuce and any other fresh toppings like tomato, pickles, or onions. Cap with the bun tops and get ready to dive into burger bliss.

How to Serve Smash Burgers with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

The right garnishes elevate your burger experience. Crisp lettuce adds a fresh crunch that contrasts the juicy patty, while thinly sliced pickles introduce a zesty tang. Don’t be shy with a few extra dollops of creamy dill sauce on top or served on the side for dipping—it’s what makes these smash burgers truly unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Classic fries are always a winner alongside smash burgers, but why not mix it up? Sweet potato wedges, onion rings, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette bring balance and brighten your meal. For a fun twist, creamy coleslaw is an excellent companion that echoes the cool dill notes in the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual party or game day, serve mini smash burgers as sliders, making it easy for guests to enjoy a few bites without the mess. You can also stack toppings like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions on the side for an interactive burger bar. Wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine, these burgers make a charming picnic or lunch option that’s as dazzling as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover smash burgers, it’s best to store components separately. Keep patties wrapped in foil or an airtight container to maintain juiciness, and store buns in a sealed bag to keep them soft. The creamy dill sauce can be refrigerated in a small jar or container, ready to brighten your next meal.

Freezing

Smash burger patties freeze well, but it’s best to freeze them before adding cheese or stacking. Lay the cooked patties flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. The creamy dill sauce is better fresh but can also be frozen; just thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

For reheating patties, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat to revive the crispy edges without drying them out. Toast the buns separately to restore their buttery crunch. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the patties tough and the buns soggy. Reintroduce the creamy dill sauce cold or at room temperature for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for these smash burgers?

Absolutely! While cheddar melts beautifully and adds a sharp flavor, try American cheese for a classic diner feel or pepper jack for a little kick. Swiss or provolone also pair nicely if you’re looking for milder, creamy options.

What’s the best way to get those crispy edges on the patties?

High heat is key. Preheating your griddle or cast iron skillet until it’s very hot creates instant searing when you smash the beef balls thin. Also, avoid moving the patties around while cooking to let the crust form perfectly.

Is the creamy dill sauce similar to ranch dressing?

They share some herbal notes, but the creamy dill sauce is more tangy and incorporates unique ingredients like grated dill pickles and mustard, which give it a distinct sharpness that complements the beef better than classic ranch.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! In fact, making the sauce a few hours or even a day before serving allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Just keep it covered and chilled in the refrigerator until ready to use.

How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, always toast the buns with butter until golden and crispy. Serving the burgers immediately after assembling also keeps everything fresh. Finally, adding fresh, crisp lettuce as the first layer on the bun creates a moisture barrier.

Final Thoughts

Making the Smash Burgers with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe is like unlocking the ultimate burger bliss—crispy edges, juicy patties, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together in pure harmony. Try this recipe soon and watch how it instantly becomes a family favorite or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Trust me, once you taste these, there’s no going back to ordinary burgers!