Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Hamburger Patty or Smash Burger with Beef-Pork Blend

Ingredients

• 1 Pound Ground Sirloin (choose your preferred fat content; lean is recommended as pork is added)
• 1/2 Pound Ground Pork
• 1/4 Cup Worcestershire Sauce (add gradually to reach desired consistency)
• 1 Teaspoon Minced Garlic
• Salt & Pepper to Taste
• Optional: Substitute a good steak or brisket seasoning for salt and pepper. Use our search tool to find the perfect seasoning.

Introduction

Burgers are an all-time American favorite, perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just craving a delicious homemade burger, the secret to a mouthwatering burger lies in selecting the right meat and cooking it just right. Today, we’re diving into how to create the perfect hamburger patty or smash burger using a delectable beef-pork blend that will leave your taste buds singing.

Choosing the Meat

Let’s start with the foundation of any great burger: the meat. For this recipe, we’re going with a mix of ground sirloin and ground pork. Why this combo? Ground sirloin is lean and packed with flavor, while ground pork brings richness and juiciness to the party. Trust me, this blend is going to take your burger game to the next level. Mix 1 pound of ground sirloin with 1/2 pound of ground pork, and you’re off to a fantastic start.

Preparing the Patty

Here’s where things get fun. In a large bowl, combine the beef and pork. Slowly add 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce—don’t just dump it all in at once. You want to reach the right consistency without drowning your meat. Toss in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the salt and pepper for a good steak or brisket seasoning (Some Suggestions). Mix everything together with your hands until well combined, but be gentle. Overworking the meat can make your patties tough, and nobody wants that.

Next, form the meat mixture into patties, depending on your preference:

• For a hamburger patty, aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch and around 6 ounces. A burger press can be a handy tool here, or check out our DIY burger press guide.
• For a smash burger, make a 6-ounce ball that you can drop onto the grill. When you smash the beef ball, aim for a thinner patty, around 1/4 inch thick.

Cooking the Burger

Now it’s time to cook those patties. You’ve got options here, depending on whether you’re making a traditional burger or a smash burger.

For Traditional Hamburger Patties:

1. Preheat the Grill: Get your grill nice and hot. Hot grates mean great sear marks.
2. Prepare the Grill: Lightly spray the grates with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Patties: Place the patties on the grill. Press them lightly with a spatula to ensure good contact. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they hit an internal temperature of 160°F.
4. Check Done-ness: Use an instant-read thermometer or press gently with a spatula to check if they’re done. Clear juices are a good sign.

For Smash Burgers:

1. Preheat the Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s smoking hot.
2. Cook the Patties:
   • Drop the meatballs onto the skillet and let them sit for a minute.
   • Add condiments (Mustard, Hot Sauce, etc) and/or thinly sliced veggies like onions, mushrooms, or jalapeños at this stage if you like.
   • Smash the meatballs with a spatula, using parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of 1/4 inch or less.
3. Flip the Burgers: Once juices start bubbling up, it’s time to flip. If your skillet is hot, you’ll need to scrape the burger to keep it intact.
4. Add Cheese: If you want cheese, now’s the time to add it. Let it melt and then take the burgers off the heat.

Check out our recommended cast iron skillet and flat top accessory for perfect smash burgers every time.

Assembling the Burger

Assembly time! Start with a high-quality bun that can handle all that juicy goodness. Lightly toast the bun for added flavor and texture. Place your cooked patty on the bottom bun, then go wild with your favorite toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and whatever condiments you fancy.

Tips for Customizing Your Burger

Want to take your burger to the next level? Experiment with different toppings and sauces. Try sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, avocado, or crispy bacon. Different cheeses like provolone or smoked gouda can add a unique twist. And don’t forget about sauces—barbecue sauce, aioli, or even a spicy mustard can transform your burger into a gourmet experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To keep your burgers from falling flat, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overworking the meat when forming patties, which can make them tough.
• Overcooking, which can dry out the patties and reduce their flavor.
• Using low-quality buns that fall apart or don’t hold up to the juicy patty.

Conclusion

Making the perfect hamburger patty or smash burger is all about choosing the right meat, cooking it to perfection, and customizing it with your favorite toppings. With this beef-pork blend recipe and our handy tips, you’re on your way to creating burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and downright delicious. So fire up your grill or preheat your skillet, and get ready to enjoy the best burger of your life!