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

Ingredients

• 1 Pound Ground Sirloin (your choice on the fat content, I tend to go lean)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/4 Cup Worcestshire Sauce
• 1 Teaspoon Garlic, minced
• Salt & Pepper to Taste
  • I sometime use a good steak or brisket seasoning in place of the Salt & Pepper

Burgers are a classic American favorite that can be enjoyed any time of the year. To make the best burger, it's all about selecting the right meat and cooking it to perfection. In this article, we'll show you how to create the perfect hamburger patty or smash burger with a beef-pork blend that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Choosing the Meat

The first step in making the perfect burger is choosing the right meat. For this recipe, we'll be using a mix of ground sirloin and ground pork. Ground sirloin is lean and flavorful, while ground pork adds richness and juiciness to the patty. To create the perfect blend, mix 1 pound of ground sirloin with 1/2 pound of ground pork.

Preparing the Patty

To make the perfect patty, start by combining the beef and pork in a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together with your hands until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Next, form the meat mixture into patties, either for a hamburger patty or smash burger, whichever you prefer. For a hamburger patty, aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch. For a smash burger make ball that you can drop onto the grill, when you smash the beef ball you are aiming for a thinner patty, around 1/4 inch.

Cooking the Patty

When it comes to cooking the patty, there are a few different methods to choose from. For a traditional hamburger patty, grill the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

For a smash burger, preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it's smoking hot. Place the patties in the skillet and use a spatula to press them down firmly, flattening them to about 1/4 inch thick. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until crispy and well-browned.

Assembling the Burger

To assemble your burger, start with a high-quality bun that will hold up to the juicy patty and toppings. Toast the bun lightly and then add your cooked patty. Top with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and condiments.

Tips for Customizing Your Burger

To add even more flavor and texture to your burger, consider experimenting with different toppings and sauces. Some tasty options include sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, avocado, or bacon. You can also try different types of cheese or condiments, such as barbecue sauce or aioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid ruining your perfect patty, make sure to avoid these common mistakes:

• Overworking the meat when forming the patties, which can make them tough
• Overcooking the patties, which can dry them out 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 selecting the right meat, cooking it to perfection, and assembling it with your favorite toppings. With this beef-pork blend recipe and our tips and techniques, you'll be able to create a burger that's juicy, flavorful, and downright delicious. So fire up the grill or preheat your skillet and get ready to make the best burger of your life!