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Crispy Budget Smash Burger Dogs

crispy budget smash burger dogs - featured image

A crowd-pleasing recipe combining smash burgers and hot dog buns for crispy, juicy burger dogs that are quick, easy, and budget-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) 80/20 ground beef
  • 8 sturdy hot dog buns
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil
  • 8 cheese slices (optional, American or cheddar)
  • Condiments and toppings: mustard, ketchup, pickles, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or as preferred

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions (about 3 ounces or 85 grams each). Roll each into a loose ball.
  4. Place a ball in the hot skillet and immediately smash it down firmly with a spatula or burger press until about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick.
  5. Cook patties without moving for 3 to 4 minutes until edges are golden and crispy. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3 minutes.
  6. If using cheese, add a slice to each patty about 1 minute before finishing and cover the pan with a lid to melt.
  7. While patties cook, lightly toast the hot dog buns in a separate pan or oven until just golden.
  8. Assemble each burger dog by placing a crispy patty inside a toasted bun and adding desired condiments and toppings.
  9. Serve hot and fresh for maximum crispiness.

Notes

Press patties firmly but gently to avoid tearing. Keep heat medium-high to get a crispy crust without burning. Do not flip patties too early; wait until crust releases naturally. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Cook in batches if pan is crowded.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, burger dogs, crispy burger, budget recipe, crowd-pleaser, quick dinner, easy recipe, cast-iron skillet