# What you need:
→ For the Smashed Burger
01 - 7 oz ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1/4 tsp salt
03 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ For the Grilled Cheese
04 - 4 slices sandwich bread (white or sourdough)
05 - 4 slices cheddar cheese
06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
→ Optional Additions
07 - 4 slices dill pickle
08 - 2 tsp yellow mustard
09 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
# How to make it:
01 - Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
02 - Divide the ground beef into two equal portions and loosely shape each into a ball.
03 - Place a beef ball onto the hot skillet. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash the beef flat to approximately 1/2 inch thickness. Season with salt and black pepper.
04 - Cook the patties for 2 minutes, then flip and top each with a slice of cheddar cheese. Continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
05 - Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Place two slices, buttered side down, onto the skillet.
06 - On each bread slice on the skillet, layer a slice of cheese, a smashed burger patty, and optional toppings such as pickles, sliced red onion, and mustard.
07 - Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
08 - Grill each sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese becomes gooey.
09 - Remove sandwiches from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.
