Pickle Fix Smash Burgers

Pickle-Fix Smash Burgers bring a fresh twist to classic comfort food with juicy plant-based patties and an ultra-crunchy dill-jalapeño relish. The result is a bold, tangy burger that satisfies cravings and is ideal for vegans and vegetarians looking for something craveable and satisfying. This recipe is all about high-impact flavor in under 40 minutes, making it a strong choice for weeknights or gatherings.

I created this recipe when trying to impress my picky nephew and was shocked that he ate two in a row Now it is the burger I make for cookouts and friends are always asking for the recipe

Ingredients

• Dill pickles: diced finely for punchy crunch Choose chilled pickles with no yellowing for best flavor
• Fresh jalapeño: seeded and diced This brings a gentle heat Look for firm glossy peppers
• Shallot: diced small for sweetness and sharpness Pick ones that feel heavy and have tight skins
• Fresh dill: chopped for freshness and balance Use bright green feathery fronds
• Sugar: to mellow the acidity Just a pinch
• White wine vinegar: for tang Use a high quality vinegar for bright flavor
• Salt: heightens flavor Opt for fine sea salt for better mixing
• Black pepper: for a subtle kick Fresh cracked is best
• Plant-based ground beef: for juicy patties Look for brands with a good fat content to mimic classic burgers
• Vegetable oil: for the griddle Use a neutral high-heat oil like sunflower or canola
• Plant-based cheddar cheese: for melt Use if you want that classic melt Look for brands that actually melt well
• Crisp lettuce: for crunch Use cold dry leaves for the best texture
• Ripe tomato: for juiciness Slice thick ripe tomatoes for best results
• Vegan mayonnaise: for a creamy element Choose a brand with a mild flavor
• Yellow mustard: for kick Choose classic bright yellow
• Burger buns of your choice: Soft but sturdy buns work best Check for vegan or non-vegan per your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dill-Jalapeño Relish:

Mix the diced pickles jalapeño shallot dill sugar vinegar salt and pepper in a bowl Stir thoroughly to combine Cover the relish and chill it while you prep the rest of your ingredients This melds flavors and keeps the relish super crisp

Shape the Burger Patties:

Divide your plant-based ground into four loose balls about equal in size This light forming prevents tough burgers Roll gently so the patties smash easily

Heat the Griddle:

Set your griddle or cast iron skillet over high heat Add a thin sheen of vegetable oil when it is just shimmering but not smoking you are ready to cook

Smash the Patties:

Place the burger balls on the hot griddle Quickly press each with a sturdy spatula or burger press until very thin This is what gives the smash burger its iconic crispy edges Season with salt and pepper now

Cook and Melt Cheese:

Let the burgers cook for two to three minutes Do not move them so the bottom gets golden and crisp Flip each patty Top immediately with plant-based cheddar if using Cook another minute or two just until the cheese is gooey and the patty is browned on both sides

Toast the Buns:

Place the split buns cut side down on the griddle Toast until they are deep golden and slightly crisp This makes the burger easier to hold and ups the flavor

Assemble the Burgers:

Spread mayonnaise and mustard on each bottom bun Stack on a lettuce leaf and a thick tomato slice Add the hot smash burger patty right from the griddle Top with a big spoonful of dill-jalapeño relish Place on the bun top and serve while hot for the best bite

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You Must Know

• High in plant protein and fiber from the plant-based patties
• The relish can be made a day ahead for even more punch
• Great for meal prep if you keep buns and fillings separate until serving

I am obsessed with the dill jalapeño relish because it tastes so fresh and crunchy I remember making huge batches ahead for a backyard get-together and having zero leftovers My family now asks for extra relish with every burger night

Storage Tips

Store extra burgers and relish separately in airtight containers Burgers will keep in the fridge for up to three days The relish can hold up to four days but is best in the first two Toast buns fresh each time for ideal texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not like heat swap jalapeño for diced raw cucumber If you cannot find plant-based cheddar use any sharp vegan or classic cheese you enjoy Feel free to use classic mayonnaise if not vegan

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these smash burgers with oven-baked sweet potato fries or a big green salad For drinks a crisp lager or iced tea goes great with their tangy flavor Double the relish for topping veggie dogs or grain bowls

Smash Burger Roots

The smash burger was made popular in classic American diners It is all about high heat and crunch which you get by smashing the patty thin and letting it fry in its own juices This recipe spins that tradition with a plant-forward twist while keeping all the spirit of a summer cookout favorite

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve the perfect crispy smash burger edges?

Press the burger balls firmly onto a very hot griddle using a sturdy spatula. Cook until the edges turn deeply golden and crisp for that signature smash style.

→ Can I make the dill-jalapeño relish in advance?

Yes, preparing the relish ahead of time enhances its flavor. Store it in the fridge for up to a day before using.

→ Are vegan options available for this dish?

Certainly. Use vegan burger buns, plant-based cheese, and dairy-free mayonnaise to keep everything vegan-friendly.

→ What goes well as a side with these burgers?

Oven-baked fries, sweet potato fries, or a crisp green salad are excellent accompaniments for a satisfying meal.

→ Is there a way to add extra heat?

Absolutely. Incorporate a few slices of pickled jalapeño into the relish or add chili flakes to spice things up.