Juicy smash-style burgers stacked with crispy bacon, a creamy whipped feta spread, and toasted buns brushed with garlic butter. This isn’t your average cheeseburger—it’s gourmet comfort made easy.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Info: Contains Dairy | Gluten (in buns)
📝 Ingredients Checklist
For the Burgers:
Ground beef (divided into 4 equal balls)
Salt and black pepper
Burger buns (toasted)
Crispy bacon slices (store-bought or homemade)
For the Whipped Feta Spread:
Crumbled feta cheese
Cream cheese
Milk (optional, for creamier texture)
For the Garlic Butter Glaze:
Butter (melted)
Garlic (minced)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Whipped Feta
Blend crumbled feta and cream cheese in a food processor (or mix by hand) until smooth.
Optional: Add 1–2 tbsp milk for a more spreadable consistency. Set aside.
Cook the Smash Patties
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high. Lightly oil the surface.
Place beef balls on the skillet, leaving space. Smash each into a thin patty with a heavy spatula or press.
Season with salt and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes until edges are crisp, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes.
Mix Garlic Butter Glaze
Stir together melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl.
Assemble the Burgers
Toast buns if needed.
Spread whipped feta on bottom halves.
Add a hot burger patty and a slice of bacon.
Brush top buns with garlic butter.
Close and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips for Burger Bliss
💥 Smash Hard: Use a heavy spatula or a small pan to press burgers thin—this creates those crispy edges.
🧊 Feta Tip: Use good-quality feta packed in brine for the smoothest, most flavorful spread.
🧄 Garlic Butter Boost: Brush the inside of the top buns too for extra garlicky bite.
🔥 Keep It Hot: Assemble burgers right off the skillet so the whipped feta melts slightly for a creamy bite.
🍔 Better Than a Diner Burger
These smash burgers are stacked with layers of flavor—salty feta, crunchy bacon, buttery garlic… Every bite hits different. They’re perfect for casual entertaining, weeknight cravings, or anytime you want to level up your burger game.
👨🍳 Cooking Walkthrough
Smashing 101
Start with chilled beef for easier smashing. Press quickly after placing on the hot skillet for maximum crust.
Feta Spread Magic
Use a mini food processor if you have one. Don’t skip the milk if your spread seems too thick—it should be smooth and dollop-able.
Garlic Butter Finish
Apply while the buns are still warm to help the garlic butter soak in. If you love bold garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
🧂 Ingredient Notes & Variations
Why These Ingredients Work:
Feta + Cream Cheese: Tangy and creamy combo that pairs beautifully with beef.
Bacon: Adds a crispy, salty contrast to the soft cheese and juicy meat.
Garlic Butter: Elevates plain buns into something unforgettable.
Substitutions:
Ground beef: Use ground lamb or turkey for a twist.
Feta: Swap with goat cheese for a softer, tangier spread.
Buns: Go gluten-free or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
🍽 Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serve With:
Crispy sweet potato fries or garlic Parmesan wedges
A cold, crisp lager or sparkling lemonade
Side salad with cucumber and vinaigrette to cut the richness
Add-On Ideas:
A fried egg on top
Sliced red onion or arugula for freshness
Drizzle of hot honey or spicy aioli
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Storage
Store leftover patties and feta separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Assemble fresh before serving.
Reheat
Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Make Ahead
Whipped feta can be made up to 3 days in advance.
Garlic butter keeps in the fridge for a week—use on veggies or toast!
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Burger)
Calories: ~600 kcal
Protein: ~32g
Carbs: ~25g
Fat: ~40g
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten (from buns)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the burgers in advance?
A: You can prep the patties and feta ahead, but cook and assemble right before eating for best texture.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?
A: Greek yogurt or ricotta can work, but the spread will be a bit thinner.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes—just use a large griddle or cook in batches. The whipped feta makes enough for 6–8 burgers.
💬 Let’s Build Burgers Together
These Whipped Feta Smash Burgers are one of those “why haven’t I done this sooner?” kind of meals. They’re fast, flavorful, and downright addictive. If you try them, tag your creations or leave a comment with your twist!