7th Street Burger Recipe: Juicy Smash Burgers with Special Sauce
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The 7th Street Burger is an indulgent, juicy smash burger topped with caramelized onions, pickles, melted American cheese, and a tangy special sauce. Made with a simple beef patty and served on a soft potato roll, this comfort food favorite is perfect for backyard grilling, casual dinners, or any time you crave an authentic burger shop experience.
What Is the 7th Street Burger?
The 7th Street Burger is a New York City smash burger legend, known for its crispy seared beef patty and no-frills toppings that let the meat shine. It embodies everything a smash burger should be: thin, juicy, cheesy, and packed with umami. The signature element? That creamy, tangy special sauce that ties it all together. This burger is a tribute to classic American fast food, elevated by technique.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Incredible flavor: Crispy edges, melty cheese, and a savory sauce make each bite unforgettable.
- Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family meals or game day gatherings.
- Customizable: Swap toppings or buns to make it your own.
Pro Tips for the Best 7th Street Burger
- Don’t overwork the beef: Lightly shape the patties to keep them tender.
- Use a hot griddle or skillet: Ensures a crispy crust.
- Smash quickly: Do it within seconds of placing the meat on the heat.
- Onion placement: Add sliced onions after the first flip so they caramelize into the patty.
- Melt the cheese just before serving: It should drape over the patty without overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of beef is best for smash burgers?
Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is ideal. It gives you enough fat for juiciness without being greasy.
Can I make this on a regular stovetop?
Yes! A cast-iron skillet on a stovetop works perfectly. Just make sure it's preheated well.
Do I need a burger press?
Not necessarily. A sturdy spatula works fine as long as you press firmly and quickly.
Can I use other cheeses instead of American?
You can, but American cheese melts best for that classic diner-style finish.
What makes the special sauce so good?
The mix of mayo, mustard, ketchup, and sweet relish creates a creamy, tangy, slightly sweet condiment that enhances every bite.
How to Freeze
Freeze cooked burger patties individually wrapped in parchment paper and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet. Avoid freezing assembled burgers for best texture.
How to Store
Wrap leftover burgers (unassembled) in foil or store them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat patties in a hot skillet for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness, and toast the buns lightly before serving again.
Ingredients
How to Make 7th Street Burgers
- Make the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. Adjust seasoning and set aside.
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Form the patties: Divide the beef into 4 loose balls (about 2.5 inches wide). Do not compress.
- Cook and smash: Place each ball on the hot skillet. Immediately smash down with a spatula to about 1/4 inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add onions: Flip once the edges are crisp. Top each with a small handful of sliced onions and press lightly.
- Add cheese: Place a slice of cheese over the onions and patty. Let it melt as the onions cook into the beef.
- Toast the buns: Toast buns face-down on the skillet until golden.
- Assemble: Spread special sauce on the bottom bun, place the cheesy patty with onions, add pickle slices, and cap with the top bun.
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