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Flavorful Chimichurri Smash Burgers with Crispy Charred Crust

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These chimichurri smash burgers feature a crispy, caramelized crust paired with a fresh, tangy herb-packed chimichurri sauce, perfect for quick and flavorful meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil or clarified butter, for cooking
  • 4 burger buns, toasted (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • Optional: sliced cheese like provolone or mozzarella
  • For the Chimichurri Sauce:
  • 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (packed)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Sliced red onion
  • Tomato slices
  • Leafy lettuce or arugula
  • Pickles

Instructions

  1. Make the Chimichurri Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in olive oil until well blended. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Prepare the Beef Patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (~4 ounces each). Gently roll into loose balls and season outsides with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of vegetable oil or clarified butter and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Smash and Cook the Patties: Place one beef ball in skillet and press firmly with spatula until about 1/4 inch thick. Hold pressure for 10 seconds. Cook without moving for 3 minutes until edges are browned and crisp. Flip, add cheese if using, and cook another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness.
  5. Toast the Buns: While patties cook, toast buns face-down in a separate skillet or grill until golden and slightly crispy.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Spread chimichurri on bottom bun, add patty, then optional toppings like onion, tomato, lettuce, or pickles. Top with more chimichurri or serve on the side.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot off the skillet for best crispy crust and vibrant chimichurri flavor.

Notes

Use a hot cast iron skillet for the best crispy crust. Do not overwork the beef to keep patties tender. Press firmly and quickly when smashing. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Chimichurri tastes better after resting for a few hours or overnight. For gluten-free, use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: chimichurri, smash burgers, crispy crust, backyard BBQ, quick dinner, herb sauce, ground beef, easy recipe

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/flavorful-chimichurri-smash-burgers-recipe-easy-crispy-charred-crust/