As the warm summer sun begins to set and the tantalizing aromas of grilled food waft through the air, I can’t help but think of the perfect dish to bring joy to gathering friends and family. Enter the Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with House Sauce—my go-to recipe that transforms any ordinary cookout into a flavor-packed feast! Bursting with juicy beef goodness, topped with creamy, smoky gouda, and drizzled with a velvety house sauce, these burgers are not just another meal; they are an experience.
Imagine the crackling sound of the patties sizzling in a hot skillet, the slight crunch of the bun as you take that first bite, and the explosion of flavors that follow. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a satisfying supper that captures the essence of summer BBQs. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive July 4th celebration, this recipe promises to impress, ensuring everyone leaves the table smiling. Ready to elevate your grilling game? Let’s dive in!
Why Will You Love Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers?
Simplicity: These Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with House Sauce are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, perfect for both novice and seasoned chefs.
Flavor Explosion: The rich umami of juicy beef pairs beautifully with the creamy, smoky gouda, while the house sauce adds a delightful tang and sweetness that elevates each bite.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your burgers with a variety of toppings like fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, or even sautéed mushrooms to cater to everyone’s taste preferences.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for summer BBQs and July 4th celebrations, these burgers are sure to be a hit, delighting friends and family alike.
Time-Saving: Whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the hassle!
Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these incredible Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with House Sauce!
For the Burger Patties
- Ground Beef – Aim for 85% lean for juicy, flavorful patties that aren’t overly greasy.
- Salt – Enhances the beef’s natural flavors; adjust according to your personal taste preferences.
- Canola or Vegetable Oil – Used for greasing the skillet; helps achieve that perfect sear.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness while cooking, creating a delicious crust on your burgers.
For the Toppings
- Smoked Gouda Cheese – Choose 4 to 6 ounces, thinly sliced for that delightful smoky flavor; cheddar is a great substitute if desired.
- Buns – Pick your favorite type, whether it’s soft brioche or wholesome whole wheat, for the perfect vessel.
- Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion – Use these fresh veggies to enhance taste and presentation; they bring a refreshing crunch.
For the House Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base of the sauce and pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the burger.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a zesty tang that balances out the creaminess of the mayonnaise.
- Yellow Mustard – Provides an extra punch and a hint of classic flavor, a must for any cheeseburger.
- Honey – Sweetens the sauce just right, creating a lovely dimension of flavor.
- BBQ Sauce – Contributes depth and that signature smoky taste, enhancing the overall burger experience.
Let’s gather these fresh ingredients and get ready to create a truly unforgettable Smoked Gouda Smash Burger experience!
How to Make Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers
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Prepare Patties: Start by dividing the ground beef into 4 (or 6) equal portions and gently shape them into balls. This simple step sets the stage for truly juicy burgers.
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Heat Skillet: Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. You want it nice and hot to achieve that perfect sear!
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Cook Burgers:
- Add Oil: Pour in the canola oil and half of the unsalted butter.
- Smash: Place the beef balls in the skillet and smash them down with a spatula to about ½ inch thick.
- Season & Sear: Season with salt and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting those gorgeous crusty edges form.
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Flip & Add Cheese: Carefully flip the burgers, season again with salt, and cook for another 2 minutes. Just before they finish cooking, top each burger with smoked gouda cheese to melt beautifully.
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Make House Sauce: While the burgers are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, and BBQ sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Assemble Burgers: Serve the warm, cheesy burgers on your choice of buns, generously drizzling the house sauce on top and adding your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and red onion.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with House Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shape the burger patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply place them in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. The house sauce can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. When ready to serve, just heat the skillet, cook the patties until they’re perfectly seared, and top with smoked gouda until melted. You’ll have delicious, gourmet burgers ready in no time, making weeknight dinners feel effortless!
Expert Tips for Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers
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Preheat Properly: Ensure your skillet is sizzling hot before adding the beef to achieve a beautiful crust and lock in juices.
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Smash Sparingly: Use a spatula to smash the patties once, as too many presses can lead to dry burgers. One good smash is all you need!
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Cheese Timing: Add smoked gouda cheese just before the burgers are done cooking; cover the skillet for a minute to melt it perfectly without getting too greasy.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh toppings like crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes to enhance your burgers’ flavor and presentation; they balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
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House Sauce Variations: Adjust the house sauce to your taste. If you prefer a bit more zing, add extra Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers
Fridge: Store cooked Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the house sauce separate to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen burgers overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through.
Wrap: If storing raw patties, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag; they can last up to 3 months raw as well.
What to Serve with Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with House Sauce?
Elevate your backyard barbecue with sides that complement the rich flavors of these burgers, ensuring a complete meal experience.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness and crunch of these fries provide a delightful contrast to the smoky, juicy burgers.
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Classic Coleslaw: This creamy, tangy side adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the smoked gouda beautifully.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn brings a burst of flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings and adds a fun, seasonal touch.
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Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in garlic butter offer a vibrant, healthy side that complements the hearty nature of the burgers.
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Zesty Potato Salad: A cool, zesty potato salad adds creaminess and a bit of tang, making each bite a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Homemade Pickles: Crunchy and tangy pickles provide a refreshing bite, cutting through the richness of the burger and house sauce.
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Chilled Watermelon Salad: This refreshing fruit salad, dotted with mint and feta, provides a sweet and savory balance to your meal, perfect for those hot summer days.
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Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option that can be sweetened or unsweetened, providing a light complement to the rich flavors on your plate.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that bring a nostalgic touch to your summer celebration.
Smoked Gouda Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your burgers with these delightful twists!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute ground beef for ground turkey for a lower-fat option while maintaining moisture and flavor.
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Cheese Variants: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or sharp cheddar for a classic taste.
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Gluten-Free Buns: Use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns to cater to dietary restrictions, keeping the burger experience intact.
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BBQ Flavor Boost: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the beef mixture for an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the gouda.
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Veggie Loaded: Top your burgers with avocado slices, grilled pineapple, or spicy jalapeños for a fresh and vibrant flavor explosion.
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Herbed Patties: Mix fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley into the beef before smashing for an aromatic twist.
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Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate sweet relish into the house sauce for a delightful contrast to the savory flavors, adding zing to every bite.
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Heat It Up: Drizzle sriracha or your favorite hot sauce on the burgers for those who love a little extra heat to elevate their meal.
Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with House Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for my burgers?
Absolutely! For the juiciest flavor in your Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers, look for ground beef that is around 85% lean. This ratio strikes the perfect balance between flavor and moisture, ensuring that your patties remain juicy without being overly greasy. When picking your beef, look for bright red color without any dark spots.
How do I store leftover burgers?
Very simple! Store any cooked Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the house sauce fresh and flavorful, it’s best to store it separately. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop the patties into a skillet to reheat!
Can I freeze the uncooked burger patties?
Yes, you can! To freeze raw patties, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before grilling—easy peasy!
What if my burgers don’t sear properly?
If your burgers aren’t getting that gorgeous crust, ensure your skillet is properly preheated for at least 5 minutes on medium-high heat before adding the beef. Additionally, when you smash the patties, do it just once to allow a good sear on one side. If you flip them too soon, they may not have enough time to develop that caramelized exterior.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! You can easily make these Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers gluten-free by simply choosing a gluten-free bun or even serving the burger patty over a bed of greens instead. The rest of the ingredients are inherently gluten-free, but be sure to check your labels on condiments like BBQ sauce to avoid hidden gluten.
Can I modify the house sauce for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try substituting the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. For those avoiding mustard, simply omit it and add additional honey for sweetness. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences while keeping the essence of that flavorful kick!
Juicy Smoked Gouda Smash Burgers with Flavorful House Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into balls.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook Burgers: Add oil and half the butter; smash beef balls to about ½ inch thick and season.
- Flip & Add Cheese: Flip burgers, season again, and top with smoked gouda cheese before finishing cooking.
- Make House Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, and BBQ sauce.
- Assemble Burgers: Serve burgers on buns with house sauce and your favorite toppings.