If you’re craving a burger that delivers on bold flavor and juicy satisfaction, look no further than the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe. This isn’t just any burger—it’s a two-patty masterpiece with perfectly seasoned, smashed beef patties that are thin and crispy on the edges yet bursting with juicy goodness inside. Paired with melty American cheese, a creamy signature sauce, and soft brioche buns, this recipe brings diner nostalgia right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned burger lover or looking to up your grilling game, this Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the iconic taste and texture—from the rich, well-seasoned beef to the sweet and fluffy brioche buns and that unforgettable signature sauce that ties everything together.
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended): The perfect fat ratio ensures juicy, flavorful patties that crisp nicely when smashed.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami boost to the beef mixture, enhancing depth.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: A subtle yet essential seasoning that complements the meat’s richness.
- 1 tsp Onion Powder: Brings a mild sweetness and aroma to the patties.
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika: Provides a gentle smoky layer that makes these burgers irresistibly complex.
- 4 Brioche Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that hold up perfectly and add a luxurious mouthfeel.
- 4 slices American Cheese: Classic cheese that melts beautifully, creating gooey, melty layers between the patties.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the signature sauce that adds richness and moisture.
- 2 tbsp Ketchup: Brings tangy sweetness essential in the signature sauce for balance.
How to Make Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Beef
Start by mixing your ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This combination creates a flavorful meat base that’s far from ordinary. After mixing, portion the meat into eight equal balls—remember, smashing these thin is the key to that signature crispy edge and juicy center.
Step 2: Chill the Patties
Chilling the beef balls for about 30 minutes isn’t mandatory, but it helps them hold together better when smashed and ensures even cooking. This small step makes a big difference in texture and form.
Step 3: Whisk the Signature Sauce
While your patties chill, whip up the signature sauce by combining mayonnaise and ketchup. This creamy, tangy sauce is the secret weapon that elevates the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe beyond your average homemade burger. For an extra edge, add your favorite mustard, relish, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat, then chill it alongside the patties.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil until it’s shimmering hot. Smash each beef ball down firmly into thin patties in the skillet. The smashing creates that irresistible crust and locks in juiciness. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side until edges brown beautifully, flip, and then add a slice of American cheese on top; cook for another minute until the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 5: Toast and Assemble
Toast those brioche buns if you like a little crunch and warmth. Spread the luscious signature sauce on each bun half—this sauce is what truly makes the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe pop with flavor. Stack two cheesy patties on each bun bottom, and add classic toppings like fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and onions to complete the burger.
How to Serve Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and thinly sliced onions add freshness and crunch, balancing the burger’s rich and savory profile. You can also add pickles for tang or jalapeños if you want a spicy kick. Don’t forget a touch of extra sauce on the side for dunking bites—because why not?
Side Dishes
The perfect side for this burger includes classic fries, sweet potato wedges, or even onion rings. A crunchy coleslaw or a crisp dill pickle spear can also brighten the plate and contrast the richness, making every bite feel balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Stack the patties slightly offset so each layer of melted cheese is visible, and serve with a wooden skewer to keep it all together. For a fun twist, serve mini slider versions using smaller buns and patties at a party. Pair your Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe with a craft soda or a cold beer for that diner feel in your own home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long), wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the buns separate if possible to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked patties individually on a baking tray before transferring to freezer bags to prevent sticking. This allows you to keep homemade smashed patties ready for a quick meal whenever craving strikes. Freeze for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven wrapped in foil to preserve moisture. Avoid microwaving when possible as it can toughen the patties. Add fresh cheese and sauce when serving again to keep the burger experience lively.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe?
Absolutely! While American cheese melts perfectly and offers that classic burger flavor, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even Swiss for a new twist on taste and texture.
Do I have to smash the burgers really thin?
Yes, smashing the beef balls thin and flat is key to achieving those crispy edges and quick cooking that define the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe. It also ensures the patties layer beautifully inside the bun.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
An 80/20 ground beef blend is ideal because it has enough fat to keep the patties juicy while cooking at high heat. Leaner meat tends to dry out, so avoid it for this style of burger.
Is the signature sauce difficult to make?
Not at all! The signature sauce is a simple mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and some trusty spices. It’s quick to prepare and makes a huge flavor difference, adding creamy tang that complements the savory patties perfectly.
Can I make these burgers vegetarian or vegan?
While this Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe is built around ground beef, you can try plant-based burger patties smashed thin in a similar fashion. Just remember to adapt the sauce and cheese to vegan versions, and you’ll have a delicious alternative.
Final Thoughts
Making the Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe at home feels like bringing a slice of diner joy to your kitchen. The combination of smashed, flavorful patties, melty cheese, and tangy signature sauce creates an unforgettable burger experience that’s sure to impress friends and family. Give this recipe a try the next time you want a burger that’s truly worth savoring—you’ll never look back!
Print
Sonic Double Smasher Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy the rich and flavorful Sonic Double Smasher Burger, featuring thin smashed beef patties cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet, topped with melted American cheese, and complemented by a tangy homemade signature sauce and fresh veggies, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- Olive Oil, for cooking
Burger Components
- 4 Brioche Buns
- 4 slices American Cheese
- Lettuce, for serving
- Tomato slices, for serving
- Onion slices, for serving
For the Signature Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Ketchup
- 1 tsp Mustard
- 1 tsp Relish
- 1/2 tsp Vinegar
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Paprika
- Pinch of Cayenne Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
- Form Patties: Divide the seasoned beef mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball to prepare for smashing.
- Chill Patties (Optional): Place the beef balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them hold together during cooking.
- Make the Signature Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until it shimmers, ensuring a hot surface for searing.
- Cook the Patties: Place each beef ball on the skillet and smash it thin using a spatula or burger press. Cook for 2-3 minutes until a brown crust forms, then flip and cook for another minute. Place a slice of American cheese on each patty and allow it to melt as the second side cooks.
- Toast the Buns: If desired, lightly toast the brioche buns in the same skillet or a toaster to enhance texture and flavor.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread the prepared signature sauce on both halves of the buns. Layer with lettuce, tomato, onions, and two cheese-topped patties per bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps prevent them from falling apart during the smashing and cooking process.
- The signature sauce can be customized by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper for more or less heat.
- Use a heavy spatula or burger press to get an even, thin smash on each patty for the authentic texture.
- Brioche buns add a sweet, buttery flavor that complements the savory beef; other buns can be used as alternatives.
- For best sear and crust, do not overcrowd the skillet; cook patties in batches if necessary.
