Skillet Smash Burgers with Charred Corn Relish

Smash burgers get their signature crust from pressing loose beef onto a ripping-hot skillet. Here, crispy patties meet a charred corn relish with tomato, jalapeño, and lime for a bright weeknight dinner.

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 20 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 680 cal
• 38g protein
• 42g carbs
• 40g fat
• 5g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, cut from cob)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 medium red onion
• 1 jalapeño
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 lime
• 8 burger buns
• 8 American cheese slices
• 1.5 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. 1Heat a large cast-iron skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes; a drop of water should dance and evaporate instantly.
2. 2While the pan heats, stir together the corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and a drizzle of oil in a bowl to make the relish; set aside so flavors marry.
3. 3Divide the ground beef into 8 loose balls the size of a golf ball; do not pack them tightly or the smash will be dense.
4. 4Add a thin film of oil to the hot skillet. Place four beef balls on the surface, then immediately smash each one hard with a sturdy spatula or burger press into a thin patty about 4 inches wide. Season the tops generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. 5Cook undisturbed until the edges turn deep brown and crispy and juices start to bubble on top, 2 to 3 minutes. Flip carefully, top each patty with a cheese slice, and cook 45 to 60 seconds more until the cheese melts and the second side is just set.
6. 6Transfer the first batch to a warm plate and repeat with the remaining beef balls, adding a little more oil if the pan looks dry.
7. 7While the second batch cooks, toast the buns cut-side down in a separate skillet with a smear of butter until golden, about 1 minute.
8. 8Build each burger: bottom bun, smash patty with melted cheese, a generous spoonful of the charred-looking corn-tomato relish, and the top bun. Serve immediately while the edges are still shatter-crisp.