Smash burgers are quickly becoming my favorite way to make burgers and you can certainly cook smash burgers inside on a cast iron griddle on the stovetop.

I don’t have the funds yet to purchase a Blackstone Griddle or Camp Chef (from Amazon).

The best way I’ve found so far is to cook them on a Lodge Cast Iron Griddle.

Grilling smash burgers has become increasingly popular in recent years, and a cast iron griddle is a great tool for this technique. Here are some pros and cons of using a cast iron griddle for grilling smash burgers:

Pros:

1. Even Smash: One of the keys to making a great smash burger is to get an even, flat smash. A cast iron griddle provides a solid, even surface that allows you to get a perfect smash every time.
2. Maillard Reaction: Smash burgers are all about achieving a crispy, caramelized crust on the patty. A cast iron griddle excels at creating the Maillard reaction, which is the chemical reaction that occurs when amino acids and sugars are heated and create that desirable browning and flavor.
3. Quick Cooking: Smash burgers cook quickly, and a cast iron griddle can handle the high heat needed to get that crusty exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Cons:

1. Smoke: Grilling smash burgers on a cast iron griddle can create quite a bit of smoke, especially if you’re cooking them indoors. Make sure you have adequate ventilation or consider cooking them outdoors.
2. Grease: Smash burgers release a lot of grease, and a cast iron griddle can hold onto that grease, which can create flare-ups or smoke. Make sure you have a grease trap or a way to remove excess grease as you cook.
3. Crowding: A cast iron griddle has limited space, which can be a downside if you’re cooking for a large group or trying to cook multiple burgers at once. You may need to cook in batches, which can take longer and require more time and attention.

Overall, grilling smash burgers on a cast iron griddle can be a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this popular burger style. The even smash, Maillard reaction, and quick cooking time are all advantages of using a cast iron griddle. However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides, such as smoke, grease, and crowding. With proper ventilation and attention to these factors, you can enjoy delicious smash burgers on a cast iron griddle.