Crispy Vegan Smash Burger Recipe That’s Blowing Up on TikTok (You’ll Want Two!)

Why Are Smash Burgers All Over TikTok?

If you’ve scrolled through food TikTok lately, chances are you’ve seen that sizzling moment: a ball of meat getting smashed flat onto a hot skillet, forming golden, crispy edges. That’s the magic of a smash burger.

Traditionally, they’re beefy, greasy, and very non-vegan. But guess what? We cracked the code for a version that’s 100% plant-based, just as juicy, and (dare I say) even more delicious. And yes—you can get those same crispy, lacey edges that make smash burgers so addictive.

The Secret to the Perfect Vegan Smash Burger

Here’s the thing about smash burgers: technique is everything. You don’t need fancy tools, just:

• A heavy flat spatula or burger press (to really smash the patty).
• A hot cast-iron skillet (non-stick pans won’t crisp the same way).
• The right patty base—I’ll give you two options: store-bought (like Beyond Meat) for convenience or a homemade mushroom-lentil patty for the DIY crew.

The key? Start with a ball of “meat,” then smash it hard once and let it crisp without fussing.

🌱 Vegan Smash Burger Recipe

Ingredients (2 Burgers)

• 2 vegan burger patties (Beyond Meat, Impossible, or homemade mushroom-lentil mix)
• 2 soft vegan burger buns (brioche-style recommended)
• 2 slices vegan cheese (Violife, Chao, or homemade cashew cheese)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp vegan butter or oil
• Salt + pepper, to taste

For the Smash Sauce:

• 3 tbsp vegan mayo
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp pickle relish
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Think Potatoes try this : Lazy Weekend Vegan Breakfasts That Start with Potatoes (and Spice Things Up)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions
   • Heat a skillet with a little oil.
   • Add onions, cook low and slow until golden (about 10 minutes).
2. Prepare the Patties
   • Roll each patty into a ball.
   • Heat a cast-iron skillet until very hot.
3. Smash Time!
   • Place a patty ball in the skillet.
   • Cover with parchment paper (TikTok hack!) and smash flat with a spatula or press.
   • Season with salt and pepper.
   • Cook 2–3 minutes until crispy edges form. Flip, add vegan cheese, and cook another minute.
4. Build the Burger
   • Toast buns with vegan butter.
   • Spread smash sauce generously.
   • Layer patty, caramelized onions, and any toppings you love (pickles, lettuce, jalapeños).

🍟 TikTok-Inspired Serving Idea

Want to really lean into the trend? Film the “smash moment” and post it on TikTok or IG Reels. Pair your burger with other viral sides:

• Crispy smashed potatoes with garlic butter.
• Spicy vegan hot honey cauliflower bites.

Why This Vegan Smash Burger Works

• Crispy, lacy edges like the viral videos.
• Juicy inside (no dry bean burger vibes here).
• Sauce and toppings make it crave-worthy.
• Works with store-bought patties OR homemade.

❓ FAQ

Can I use Beyond Meat for smash burgers?
Absolutely—it smashes beautifully and crisps just like beef.

How do I get the crispy edges?
Make sure your pan is screaming hot and smash only once. Don’t press again after flipping.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes—just use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.

Final Bite

TikTok might’ve made smash burgers viral, but this vegan version makes them timeless. Juicy, crispy, and fun to make—this is one burger you’ll crave again and again.

So grab your skillet, get smashing, and don’t forget to record that moment for TikTok fame. Who said vegans can’t go viral?