This Weight Watchers-friendly smashed burger is a lean, high-protein twist on a fast-food favorite. It features a thin, crispy-edged patty made with extra-lean ground beef, cooked hot and fast to create that signature sear. Paired with a low-calorie bun or lettuce wrap, and smartly portioned condiments, it’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture to stay on track. At just 2 SmartPoints per burger (not including bun or toppings), this recipe is ideal for meal prep, summer cookouts, or any time you crave a classic American burger.
Ingredients (Makes 4 burgers)
- 1/2 pound (8 oz) 96% lean ground beef
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 sprays of nonstick cooking spray
- Optional: mustard or Worcestershire sauce for seasoning (very minimal point impact)
- Low-calorie or light hamburger buns (optional, not included in base point count)
- Toppings: sliced tomato, pickles, lettuce, onion, mustard, sugar-free ketchup
Instructions
1. Divide and shape the beef.
Start by dividing the ground beef into four equal portions, each weighing about 2 ounces. Roll each portion into a loose ball. Do not compress too tightly—keeping the meat loosely packed will help it smash and sear more effectively.
2. Preheat the cooking surface.
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high to high heat until it is very hot. Lightly spray the surface with nonstick cooking spray. A hot surface is essential for creating the crisp, caramelized crust that defines a smashed burger.
3. Smash the burgers.
Place each beef ball onto the hot skillet. Immediately press it down with a sturdy spatula or burger press until it is very thin—about 1/4-inch thick. Hold pressure for 10–15 seconds to maximize the sear. Sprinkle the top of each patty with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Cook quickly.
Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes, or until the edges are browned and crispy and juices begin to rise to the surface. Flip each patty and cook for another 1–2 minutes on the second side until fully cooked through.
5. Assemble and serve.
Serve your smashed burger on a low-point bun or in a lettuce wrap, depending on your preferences and daily point budget. Top with pickles, tomatoes, onions, shredded lettuce, mustard, or sugar-free ketchup—all of which can be zero points depending on quantity and brand.
Serving Suggestions
Each smashed patty is 2 WW points on most plans, making it easy to build a full burger meal around it. Use a 2-point bun for a total of 4 points, or opt for a lettuce wrap to keep it at 2 points. A side of roasted vegetables or a salad with light dressing rounds out the meal without adding significant points.
To create a classic double, stack two patties with a slice of fat-free cheese in between for a 4–5 point burger that feels like an indulgent cheat meal—without actually cheating.
