How to Build the Ultimate Smash Burger at Home (But Why Ours Is Better)

Introduction

A smash burger is more than just a regular burger—it’s a flavorful, crispy, juicy masterpiece. What sets it apart is the cooking method: high heat, thin patties smashed directly onto a hot surface to create a beautifully caramelized crust. Smash burgers have become a favorite for many because they balance indulgence and simplicity, delivering bold flavors with minimal ingredients.

At Super Smash Burgers, we’ve taken the classic smash burger to new heights by adopting the Oklahoma-style smash burger method. This unique style involves smashing thinly sliced white onions directly into the patty and adding a tangy yellow mustard sear before flipping. The result? A burger bursting with sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that’s unlike anything you can make at home.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to build the ultimate smash burger at home, step-by-step, and explain why our Oklahoma-style smash burgers at Super Smash Burgers are the gold standard in Vancouver. For those who want to skip the hassle and get straight to tasting perfection, you can visit our menu to explore our full range of burgers.

What Makes an Oklahoma-Style Smash Burger Unique?

If you’ve ever had a smash burger, you know that its appeal lies in the crispy, caramelized edges and juicy interior. But an Oklahoma-style smash burger takes things a step further by incorporating two key elements: thinly sliced onions smashed into the patty and a yellow mustard sear. This style offers a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that elevate the classic smash burger experience.

The History of Oklahoma-Style Smash Burgers

The Oklahoma-style smash burger has its roots in the Great Depression era when onions were used to stretch limited meat supplies. By smashing a handful of thinly sliced onions into the patty, cooks could create a more filling meal without needing extra beef. Over time, this technique became popular for its unique flavor and texture.

Today, Super Smash Burgers proudly brings this timeless technique to Vancouver, giving customers a chance to experience a burger style with a rich history and bold flavor profile. Our thinly sliced white onions are carefully prepared to ensure perfect caramelization, adding a sweet note that complements the savory beef.

Key Features of an Oklahoma-Style Smash Burger

Onions Smashed into the Patty
The hallmark of an Oklahoma-style burger is the layer of thinly sliced white onions pressed directly into the patty during cooking. This creates a unique fusion where the onions caramelize into the beef, enhancing the flavor and adding a touch of sweetness.
Yellow Mustard Sear
Just before flipping, a layer of yellow mustard is spread on the uncooked side of the patty. As the patty cooks, the mustard sears into the beef, forming a tangy crust that adds depth to every bite.
Crispy Edges and Juicy Center
The high-heat cooking method ensures the patty develops crispy edges while remaining juicy in the middle. This contrast in texture is what makes a smash burger so satisfying.
Minimalist Toppings
An Oklahoma-style smash burger is all about letting the beef and onions shine. While toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles can be added, it’s best to keep it simple to highlight the core flavors.

Why We Love This Style at Super Smash Burgers

At Super Smash Burgers, we’ve perfected the Oklahoma-style technique to ensure every burger is packed with flavor. Our chefs carefully smash the onions into the beef at just the right moment, ensuring even caramelization and a perfect crust. The mustard sear adds an extra layer of tanginess, making each bite a flavor explosion.

Want to skip the cooking and try one for yourself? Check out our menu of Oklahoma-style smash burgers and experience the difference today.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building the Ultimate Oklahoma-Style Smash Burger at Home

Making an Oklahoma-style smash burger at home might seem challenging, but with the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, you can recreate a version that’s packed with flavor. While it’s tough to match the consistency of a professional kitchen like Super Smash Burgers, this guide will help you get close.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Description
Ground Beef (80/20 Fat Ratio)	The ideal fat ratio for juicy patties with crispy edges.
White Onions (Thinly Sliced)	Thin slices ensure they caramelize perfectly when smashed.
Yellow Mustard	Adds a tangy crust when seared into the patty.
Salt & Pepper	Basic seasoning to enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
American Cheddar Cheese	Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, savory topping.
Potato Buns	Soft yet sturdy, perfect for holding juicy patties.
Optional Toppings	Lettuce, tomato, pickles, or your favorite burger add-ons.

Equipment You’ll Need

Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle
A heavy skillet or griddle ensures even heat distribution and helps create that perfect sear.
Spatula or Burger Press
A flat, sturdy spatula is essential for smashing the patties into thin layers.
Parchment Paper (Optional)
Place parchment paper between the spatula and beef to prevent sticking during the smash.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat Your Skillet
Heat your cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat. It needs to be extremely hot to achieve the crispy crust that defines a smash burger.
Prepare the Beef Balls
Roll the ground beef into loose balls, about 4 oz each. Don’t pack them tightly—looser balls make it easier to smash them flat.
Slice the Onions
Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the white onions very thinly. This ensures they caramelize quickly when smashed into the patty.
Smash the Patty
- Place a beef ball onto the hot skillet.
- Immediately add a handful of thinly sliced onions on top.
- Use a spatula or burger press to smash the beef ball down, pressing the onions into the patty.
- Smash until the patty is very thin, about 1/4 inch thick.
Season and Cook
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patty.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until the edges are crispy and the onions are caramelized.
Add the Mustard Sear
- Before flipping, spread a thin layer of yellow mustard on the uncooked side of the patty.
- Flip the patty so the mustard side is down. Cook for another 1 minute, allowing the mustard to sear into the beef.
Add Cheese
- Place a slice of American cheddar cheese on top of the patty immediately after flipping.
- Cover the skillet briefly to help the cheese melt faster.
Toast the Buns
- While the patty finishes cooking, place the potato buns on the skillet to toast them lightly. This adds flavor and helps prevent sogginess.
Assemble the Burger
- Spread your favorite sauce on the bottom bun (SSB burger sauce or mayo works well).
- Add the patty with melted cheese.
- Optional: Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
- Top with the other half of the bun.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture. Pair your burger with a side of crispy tots or onion rings, just like we do at Super Smash Burgers.

Pro Tips for the Best Smash Burger

Smash Early
Smash the beef ball immediately after placing it on the skillet. Waiting too long prevents the patty from forming a proper crust.
Don’t Over-Smash
Only smash once! Over-smashing after the initial press can squeeze out the juices, resulting in a dry burger.
Use High Heat
The key to a crispy crust and caramelized onions is cooking over very high heat. Don’t be afraid if you see a bit of smoke—it’s part of the process.

Want to skip the hassle and enjoy a professionally crafted Oklahoma-style smash burger? Visit Super Smash Burgers at Donnellan’s Irish Pub or check out our full menu online to order for takeout or delivery.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Smash Burgers

While making an Oklahoma-style smash burger at home can be fun and rewarding, there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your burger experience. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure you get the perfect balance of crispy edges, juicy center, caramelized onions, and tangy mustard sear every time.

1. Not Slicing the Onions Thin Enough

The onions are a critical component of an Oklahoma-style smash burger. If the onions are too thick, they won’t caramelize properly when smashed into the patty. Instead of melting into the meat, thick onions may remain raw or overpower the flavor.

Pro Tip: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the onions as thinly as possible, aiming for a translucent appearance. This ensures even cooking and perfect caramelization.

2. Skipping the Mustard Sear

The mustard sear is what sets the Oklahoma-style smash burger apart from a standard smash burger. Without it, you miss out on the tangy, flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste of the patty.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to spread a generous layer of yellow mustard on the uncooked side of the patty before flipping. The heat will mellow the sharpness of the mustard, leaving behind a savory tang.

3. Using Lean Ground Beef

Smash burgers rely on fat content to stay juicy and flavorful. Lean beef (e.g., 90/10) doesn’t have enough fat to create the rich, crispy crust and tender interior that make smash burgers so appealing.

Pro Tip: Stick to an 80/20 fat ratio (80% lean meat, 20% fat) for the best results. The fat renders during cooking, adding flavor and keeping the burger juicy.

4. Not Using High Enough Heat

High heat is essential for creating the Maillard reaction—the chemical process that gives your burger its crispy, caramelized crust. Cooking at too low a temperature will steam the patty rather than sear it, resulting in a bland, soggy burger.

Pro Tip: Preheat your skillet or griddle until it’s smoking hot before adding the beef. The initial contact with the hot surface is what creates the signature crispy edges.

5. Over-Smashing the Patty

Smashing the patty too much or too late can cause the juices to escape, leaving you with a dry burger. The initial smash is crucial for creating the thin, even patty with crispy edges.

Pro Tip: Smash the patty immediately after placing it on the skillet, and do it only once. After that, let it cook undisturbed until ready to flip.

6. Overloading with Toppings

An Oklahoma-style smash burger is meant to highlight the beef, onions, and mustard sear. Overloading the burger with too many toppings can overshadow these core flavors and make the burger difficult to eat.

Pro Tip: Stick to simple, classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a light spread of sauce. Let the caramelized onions and mustard sear take center stage.

Summary Table: Common Mistakes vs. Pro Tips

Mistake	Pro Tip
Thick onion slices	Slice onions very thin using a mandoline or sharp knife.
Skipping the mustard sear	Always add yellow mustard before flipping the patty.
Using lean ground beef	Use an 80/20 fat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties.
Low cooking temperature	Preheat skillet until it’s smoking hot before cooking.
Over-smashing the patty	Smash only once right after placing the beef on the skillet.
Overloading with toppings	Keep toppings simple to highlight core flavors.

Want to avoid these mistakes entirely? Visit us at Super Smash Burgers, where our chefs have mastered the art of the Oklahoma-style smash burger. Check out our menu and place an order for dine-in, takeout, or delivery today!

Why Super Smash Burgers Are Better Than Homemade

While making an Oklahoma-style smash burger at home is fun and can result in a delicious meal, nothing beats the experience of enjoying a professionally crafted burger at Super Smash Burgers. Our chefs have mastered the fine balance of flavor, texture, and technique to deliver burgers that are consistently exceptional.

Here’s why our Oklahoma-style smash burgers are better than anything you can create at home:

1. Perfectly Smashed Onions and Mustard Sear Every Time

At Super Smash Burgers, our chefs use precise techniques to ensure that the thinly sliced onions are smashed into the patty at the right time and pressure. This guarantees perfectly caramelized onions that blend seamlessly into the beef. Additionally, the yellow mustard sear is applied with expert timing, creating a tangy, flavorful crust on every burger.

Home vs. Super Smash Burgers:
At home, it’s challenging to achieve the perfect caramelization of onions and even distribution of mustard without specialized equipment and practice. Our chefs, with their experience and high-quality griddles, ensure consistent results every time.

2. Premium Ingredients

We pride ourselves on using only the best ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible. Key highlights include:

Never-frozen Black Angus beef sourced from The Butcher Langley, ensuring freshness and premium quality.
Freshly sliced white onions, chosen for their mild flavor and ideal texture when caramelized.
Soft potato buns, toasted to perfection for a slightly crisp exterior and fluffy interior.

By sourcing top-tier ingredients and preparing them with care, we create burgers that stand out in both flavor and texture.

3. Dedicated Equipment for Consistency

A proper Oklahoma-style smash burger requires high, consistent heat. Our restaurant-grade griddles are designed to maintain even temperatures, ensuring that every patty develops a crispy crust without burning. This level of consistency is hard to achieve with a home stovetop or skillet.

Home vs. Super Smash Burgers:
Even the best cast iron skillet at home may struggle to maintain the necessary heat after a few patties. At Super Smash Burgers, our equipment is built for the task, allowing us to serve perfectly smashed burgers in every order.

4. Unique Menu Options

While you can create a classic smash burger at home, at Super Smash Burgers, we offer a variety of creative and indulgent options that are hard to replicate. Our menu includes:

Mushroom Kingdom Burger: Featuring sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and Swiss cheese for an umami-packed experience.
Double Smash Burger: Double the beef, double the cheese, and double the flavor for those who want an extra indulgent meal.
Leafeon Burger: A plant-based version of our smash burger, made with a juicy Impossible patty and caramelized onions.
Customizable Options: Add bacon, caramelized onions, or an extra patty to create your perfect burger.

Check out our full menu to explore all our unique offerings.

5. The Ultimate Pairings

At Super Smash Burgers, we offer sides and drinks that complement our Oklahoma-style smash burgers perfectly:

Sides:
- Super Punched Fries
- Crispy tots
- Golden onion rings, all cooked in a dedicated fryer for perfect crispiness.
Drinks:
- Choose from a variety of soft drinks or pair your burger with a refreshing craft beer from Donnellan’s Irish Pub for the ultimate experience.

These thoughtful pairings elevate the burger experience, making it more satisfying than a simple home-cooked meal.

6. No Cleanup Required

Let’s face it—cooking burgers at home can be messy. Between the high heat, splattering oil, and multiple steps, cleaning up afterward can feel like a chore. At Super Smash Burgers, you get to enjoy a perfectly crafted burger without any of the hassle.

Experience It for Yourself

While there’s nothing wrong with trying your hand at making a smash burger at home, the consistency, quality, and creativity of the burgers at Super Smash Burgers are hard to beat. Whether you’re craving the bold flavors of our Super Smash Burger, the tangy kick of our mustard-seared patties, or the sweet caramelization of our smashed onions, we have something for everyone.

Visit us at Donnellan’s Irish Pub in Vancouver, or place an order for takeout or delivery through our website.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to Oklahoma-style smash burgers, especially for those trying to make them at home, several questions often come up. Here are some of the most common questions, along with detailed answers to help you better understand this delicious burger style.

1. What’s the difference between a regular smash burger and an Oklahoma-style smash burger?

A regular smash burger focuses on creating a thin patty with crispy edges by smashing it onto a hot surface. The Oklahoma-style smash burger adds a twist by pressing thinly sliced onions directly into the patty during the smashing process. This results in caramelized onions that fuse with the beef, adding sweetness and depth of flavor. Additionally, the Oklahoma style features a yellow mustard sear, creating a tangy crust that enhances the overall taste.

2. Why is yellow mustard used during cooking?

Yellow mustard is spread on the uncooked side of the patty before flipping, allowing it to sear directly onto the beef. This technique adds a layer of tangy flavor and helps create a flavorful crust on the patty. The mustard mellows during cooking, resulting in a balanced taste that complements the sweet onions and savory beef.

3. Can I use red or yellow onions instead of white onions?

While you can use red or yellow onions, white onions are preferred for their mild flavor and better caramelization when cooked. They offer a sweet flavor without overpowering the burger, making them ideal for the Oklahoma-style smash burger.

4. What’s the best way to slice onions for an Oklahoma-style smash burger?

For the best results, slice the onions very thinly—almost translucent. This ensures they cook quickly and caramelize properly when smashed into the patty. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for achieving uniform, thin slices.

5. Can I make a plant-based version of the Oklahoma-style smash burger?

Yes! At Super Smash Burgers, we offer the Leafeon Burger, a plant-based take on the smash burger, featuring a juicy Impossible patty. You can recreate a similar version at home by using plant-based patties, thinly sliced onions, and a mustard sear.

For a ready-made, professionally crafted plant-based burger, check out our Leafeon Burger and other vegan-friendly options.

6. How do I prevent my patties from sticking when smashing?

One common issue when making smash burgers at home is the patty sticking to the spatula. To avoid this:

Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or griddle.
Apply a light coat of oil to the spatula or burger press.
Alternatively, place a piece of parchment paper between the spatula and patty when smashing. This makes it easier to remove the spatula without tearing the patty.

7. What toppings work best on an Oklahoma-style smash burger?

While you can add any toppings you like, the simplicity of an Oklahoma-style smash burger is what makes it special. Classic toppings include:

Lettuce, tomato, and pickles
Cheese (American cheddar is the classic choice for its meltability)
A light spread of SSB burger sauce, mayo, or mustard on the toasted bun.

Feel free to customize it further, but remember that the caramelized onions and mustard sear are the stars of this burger.

8. Can I order an Oklahoma-style smash burger for takeout or delivery?

Absolutely! At Super Smash Burgers, we offer takeout and delivery options so you can enjoy our expertly crafted Oklahoma-style smash burgers wherever you are. You can place an order directly through our website or via popular delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.

9. What’s the best way to toast the buns?

Toasting the buns adds flavor and helps prevent them from getting soggy. For best results:

Lightly butter the cut sides of the buns.
Place them on the hot skillet or griddle after cooking the patties.
Toast for about 30 seconds or until golden brown.

At Super Smash Burgers, we use premium potato buns that are toasted to perfection for added flavor and texture.

10. How does Super Smash Burgers ensure consistent quality?

At Super Smash Burgers, we pride ourselves on using high-quality ingredients and expert techniques. Our chefs are trained to smash the patties at the right time and pressure, ensuring crispy edges, juicy centers, and perfectly caramelized onions. We also source our beef locally and use fresh toppings to guarantee every burger is as delicious as the last.

Got more questions? Feel free to visit us at Super Smash Burgers or contact us through our website for more information!

Final Thoughts

Making an Oklahoma-style smash burger at home is a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you get the technique right. From smashing thinly sliced onions into the patty to creating a tangy mustard sear, the process offers a hands-on way to craft a delicious burger. However, achieving consistent results with crispy edges, caramelized onions, and juicy interiors can be challenging without the right equipment and expertise.

That’s where Super Smash Burgers stands out. Our chefs have mastered the art of the Oklahoma-style smash burger, ensuring every burger is cooked to perfection. With premium ingredients like never-frozen Black Angus beef, freshly sliced white onions, and soft potato buns, we deliver an experience that’s hard to replicate at home. Whether you prefer a classic smash burger or want to explore creative options like the Mushroom Kingdom Burger or Leafeon Burger, we’ve got something for every palate.

So why go through the hassle of cleanup and preparation when you can enjoy a perfectly crafted burger made by the pros? Stop by Super Smash Burgers at Donnellan’s Irish Pub, or check out our menu and place an order for takeout or delivery. Trust us—you’ll taste the difference.

Ready to taste the ultimate Oklahoma-style smash burger? Visit us today or order online through our website! Whether you’re dining in or enjoying at home, we promise bold flavors, crispy edges, and unforgettable bites every time.