Baked Potato Smash Burgers combine crispy smashed potatoes with juicy beef patties and cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food fusion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines two comfort food favorites—burgers and crispy smashed potatoes
- Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients
- Customizable with your favorite burger toppings
- Oven-baked potatoes for less mess and maximum crisp
- Cheesy, crispy, savory, and satisfying
- Perfect for family meals, game nights, or casual get-togethers
- Can be made gluten-free with GF buns
- Great make-ahead meal idea for prep and reheat
- Crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults
- A unique take on the traditional smash burger
Ingredients
- 4 small to medium-sized Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
Directions
- Prepare the Smashed Potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes), then drain and let cool slightly.
- Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently smash each with a glass or potato masher until about ½-inch thick.
- Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Cook the Burger Patties:
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal balls.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the beef balls on the hot surface and smash flat with a spatula.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side. Add cheddar cheese after flipping and cook until melted.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Place a cheesy burger patty on the bottom bun.
- Top with one crispy smashed potato.
- Add desired toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, and sauces.
- Cap with the top bun and serve warm.
Servings And Timing
Servings: 4 burgers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add crispy bacon for extra indulgence
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Swiss
- Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, fiber-rich version
- Make it spicy with jalapeños or chipotle mayo
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for more umami
- Use ground turkey or plant-based patties for a lighter or vegetarian option
- Try brioche or pretzel buns for different texture and flavor
- Add barbecue sauce for a smoky kick
- Serve open-faced for a lower-carb version
- Add a fried egg on top for a brunch-style burger
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Refrigerate cooked burger components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat potatoes and patties in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Toast buns just before assembling.
FAQs
Can I make the smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, boil and smash them in advance. Bake fresh for the best crisp, or reheat in the oven before serving.
What’s the best beef-to-fat ratio for the patties?
80/20 ground beef offers the best balance of flavor and moisture for smash burgers.
Can I use other kinds of potatoes?
Yes, red potatoes or baby golds work best, but russets can also be used if cut smaller before boiling.
How do I get the crispiest smashed potatoes?
Let them dry after boiling and make sure your oven is hot. Brushing with oil and not overcrowding the pan also helps.
Can I grill the patties instead of using a skillet?
Yes, but smashing them may be more difficult on grill grates. Use a flat griddle or cast iron pan on the grill if possible.
Do I have to use cheddar cheese?
No, use any melting cheese you prefer—American, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack all work.
How do I prevent soggy buns?
Lightly toast the buns and avoid overloading with wet toppings or sauces.
Are these freezer-friendly?
You can freeze cooked patties and smashed potatoes separately. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet before assembling.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, use plant-based burger patties and follow the same steps with vegetarian-friendly buns and toppings.
What sides go well with these burgers?
Serve with coleslaw, fries, a green salad, or grilled corn for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Baked Potato Smash Burgers are a creative, mouthwatering twist on your traditional burger. With the crunch of golden smashed potatoes, juicy beef patties, and melty cheese layered in every bite, this recipe takes burger night to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, these burgers are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
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Baked Potato Smash Burgers
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Description
Baked Potato Smash Burgers combine crispy smashed potatoes with juicy beef patties and cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food fusion.
Ingredients
4 small to medium Yukon Gold or red potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 slices cheddar cheese
4 burger buns, toasted
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
Instructions
Prepare the Smashed Potatoes:
Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain and let cool slightly. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Smash each potato to about ½-inch thickness. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until crispy and golden.Prepare the Burger Patties:
Divide ground beef into 4 portions and form into balls.
Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
Press beef balls flat on the hot surface. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook 2–3 minutes per side. Add a slice of cheddar to each patty during the last minute.Assemble the Burgers:
Place a beef patty on each bottom bun half. Top with a crispy smashed potato.
Add optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, or sauces.
Cap with top bun.
Serve:
Serve hot with fries, chips, or a salad for a hearty meal.
Notes
- For crispier potatoes, ensure they’re dry before baking.
- Try jalapeños or spicy aioli for a kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American