BBQ Smash Burgers with Pickle Slaw feature ultra-caramelized beef patties smashed on a hot griddle, layered with melty cheese, smoky BBQ sauce, and a bright, crunchy pickle slaw. This easy smash burger recipe is perfect for backyard grilling, griddles, or cast iron—fast, bold, and irresistibly messy.
In a bowl, mix cabbage, chopped pickles, mayo, pickle juice, sugar, and black pepper.
Chill until ready to use (even 10 minutes helps).
Divide beef into 4 loose balls (don’t overwork).
Season outside lightly with salt and pepper only.
Heat grill griddle, flat-top, or cast iron skillet to high heat until smoking hot.
Place beef balls on hot surface.
Smash firmly with a spatula or burger press until very thin.
Cook 2–3 minutes until deeply browned and crispy.
Flip patties.
Brush lightly with BBQ sauce.
Add cheese immediately.
Cook 1–2 minutes until cheese melts.
Butter buns lightly.
Toast cut-side down until golden.
Bottom bun → smash patty → extra BBQ sauce → pickle slaw → top bun.
Serve immediately.
French fries or smash fries
Onion rings
Grilled corn on the cob
Potato salad
Coleslaw (extra pickle-forward works great)
Beer: IPA, pale ale, or lager
Wine: Zinfandel or chilled rosé
Non-alcoholic: Cola, root beer, or iced tea
Smash burgers need high heat—don’t be shy.
Only salt the outside right before cooking.
Use a thin spatula and scrape hard to keep the crust intact.
American cheese melts best for smash burgers.
Double the patties if you want a true diner-style stack.
4 servings