Memorial Day is the unofficial start to grilling season—and what better way to kick it off than with an epic Smashburger Bar that’ll have your guests talking all summer long?
Forget the usual burgers—this year, it’s all about that crispy, juicy, crave-worthy smash. And don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with tips for the perfect smashburger, flavor-loaded topping combos, and simple sides that won’t keep you from the party.
What Makes a Smashburger So Dang Good?
The magic of the smashburger is in the crust—that golden-brown, crispy edge formed when a ball of ground beef hits a screaming-hot griddle or cast iron skillet. That crust locks in the juices, delivering flavor you just don’t get from thicker patties. It’s a flavor bomb of beefy goodness with crispy bits around the edges and a tender center that makes every bite satisfying.
Here’s how to make the perfect smashburger:
- Use 80/20 ground beef. The fat gives it flavor and helps that crust form.
- Form 2-3 oz. loose meatballs. Don’t pack them tight—you’re not making meatballs for spaghetti here.
- Use a ripping hot flat surface. A cast iron griddle or flat top on your grill is ideal.
- Smash hard and fast. Use a metal spatula or burger press to smash those balls into thin patties. Let them sizzle without moving for 2-3 minutes.
- Salt generously after the smash.
- Flip once, add cheese, and stack. American cheese is the classic. Stack two patties for the ultimate bite.
💡Pro tip: Use Griller’s Gold Competition Blend or Cherry pellets to bring a subtle smoke flavor to your burgers. Even on a griddle, your grill’s ambient smoke will infuse the meat for that unmistakable backyard barbecue flavor.
And here’s a fun host trick: grill everything you can! Not just the patties—throw your onions, mushrooms, bacon, and even pineapple slices on the grill to deepen the flavor of every topping. The grill is the star of the show today, so let it work its magic.
Build-Your-Own Smashburger Bar
This is where things get fun. Set up trays of pre-cooked double smash patties and let guests build their dream burgers, or keep the griddle going and smash them to order while your guests watch the show. The sizzle, the aroma—it’s all part of the experience.
To make it easy and interactive, offer a few signature combinations and then leave plenty of grilled and fresh toppings out for freestyle creations.
Here are a few fan favorites:
🧀 Cheeseburger Classic
- Double smash patties
- American cheese
- Grilled onions
- Pickles
- Shredded lettuce
- Smash sauce (mayo, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice)
🍍 Hawaiian Heat
- Pepper jack cheese
- Grilled pineapple rings
- Jalapeño slices
- Teriyaki glaze
- Red onion
🧅 French Onion Dip Burger
- Swiss cheese
- Caramelized onions
- Grilled mushrooms
- Garlic aioli
- Crispy fried shallots
🥓 BBQ Smokehouse
- Smoked cheddar
- Grilled bacon
- Grilled onions
- BBQ sauce
- Pickled jalapeños
🥬 Garden Goddess (Veggie Option)
- Grilled portobello cap
- Provolone cheese
- Tomato
- Arugula
- Pesto mayo
Easy Sides to Serve
Keep it simple, crowd-pleasing, and grill-friendly:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush with butter and sprinkle with smoked paprika and parmesan.
- Smash Potatoes: Boil small potatoes, smash on a grill-safe pan, drizzle with oil, grill until crispy.
- Chili Lime Watermelon Wedges: Fresh, hydrating, and unexpected.
- Loaded Grilled Tots: Toss frozen tater tots on a grill pan, top with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Pro move? Make your side dishes ahead of time, or prep them to grill alongside your burgers so you’re not stuck inside. Memorial Day is for hanging out—not hovering over the stove.
Final Touch: Let Guests Get Hands-On
The beauty of a smashburger bar is that it turns your backyard into a burger lab. It’s interactive, it’s fun, and it gets people talking. Set out trays with buns, toppings, sauces, and labels—or go the extra mile with mini chalkboard signs or printed menus showcasing signature combos.
Want to really wow them? Offer mini “burger passports” so guests can “check off” each burger they try.
Add in some patriotic flair with red, white, and blue serving trays or bandana napkins. Hang a few string lights, crank some summer tunes, and make your grill the centerpiece of the celebration. And don’t forget the cooler: stock it with lemonade, iced tea, and local brews to keep everyone cool while that griddle stays hot.
Fire It Up!
A smashburger bar is more than a meal—it’s an experience. With a hot grill, great toppings, and the right people around you, you’re setting the stage for one unforgettable Memorial Day. And thanks to Griller’s Gold pellets, that perfect blend of heat and flavor will carry every burger bite home.
Now grab your spatula, bring the sizzle, and let’s smash into summer.