Johnny Boi Smash Burger: How to Recreate the Viral Sensation at Home
Introduction
If you’re a fan of the social media phenom Johnny Boi, you already know he doesn’t play when it comes to burgers. His smash burger recipe is all over TikTok and YouTube—crispy-edged, double-stacked, oozing with cheese, and dripping with signature sauce. The Johnny Boi Smash Burger isn’t just food—it’s a full-on event. Today, you’ll learn how to bring that viral bite to life in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
Looking for more high-impact flavors? You might enjoy this creamy chicken tortellini recipe or satisfy-your-cravings burgers and shakes guide.
Historical Background
Johnny Boi rose to foodie fame thanks to his bold, no-apologies burger builds and high-energy cooking videos. His smash burger recipe revived a beloved American diner-style tradition, adding his own twist with two juicy patties, American cheese, and a killer sauce. While smash burgers have Midwestern roots, Johnny’s take has sparked a global trend, making it a Gen Z staple.
To explore other trending flavors, check out this lotus energy drink recipes guide on PowerRecipe.
Ingredients

For the Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Johnny Boi Smash Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Burger Fixings
- 4 slices American cheese
- 2 brioche buns (buttered and toasted)
- 4 pickle slices
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Thin-sliced onions (optional)
Optional Add-ons
- Hot sauce or chipotle
- Crispy bacon strips
- Tomato slices
- Grilled onions
- Jalapeños
Want a spicy kick on the side? Try this carolina reaper recipes collection.
Instructions

- Make the Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Chill while you prep the patties.
- Toast the Buns: Butter the brioche buns and toast them face-down in a skillet until golden brown. Set aside.
- Preheat the Skillet: Use a cast iron or stainless steel pan; heat until it begins to smoke.
- Form Patties: Divide ground beef into 4 loose balls (don’t compress).
- Smash Patties: Place the balls onto the skillet and smash flat using a spatula or burger press.
- Season & Sear: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear for 1.5–2 minutes.
- Flip & Cheese: Flip each patty and add a slice of cheese immediately. Cook for another minute.
- Assemble: Spread smash sauce on the bottom bun, then layer lettuce, pickles, a patty, onions (if using), the second patty, and top with the bun.
Love sauce-centered recipes? Try this avocado toast seasoning recipe as a creative alternative.
Required Tools
- Cast iron skillet or flat griddle
- Metal spatula or burger press
- Mixing bowl and spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Small bowl for sauce
Variations
- Single Smash Boi: One patty instead of two.
- Spicy Johnny Boi: Add sriracha and jalapeños.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based meat and vegan mayo.
- Deluxe Boi: Add a fried egg or crispy onion rings.
Pair it with a side like this easy-gluten-free dinner idea for a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Patties: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Skillet reheating is best for texture.
- Sauce: Store in the fridge for up to a week. Do not freeze.
Optional Serving Ideas
- Serve with seasoned or sweet potato fries
- Add creamy coleslaw as a side
- Pair with a milkshake or iced tea
- Use leftover patties in wraps or tacos
For another sauce-driven option, explore this breakfast burrito sauce that doubles as a burger dip.

Nutrition Info (Per Burger)
- Calories: 780
- Fat: 52g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
FAQ
Q: What meat is best for smash burgers?
A: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best fat-to-flavor ratio.
Q: Why smash the patties?
A: It creates a crispy crust and deep flavor from the Maillard reaction.
Q: Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?
A: Yes, but cast iron achieves the best sear.
Q: Best cheese to use?
A: American cheese—it melts perfectly and complements the beef.
Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
A: Yes, pre-make the sauce and patties, but cook them fresh.
Q: Is the sauce spicy?
A: Not unless you add spicy elements—it’s totally customizable.
Notes
- Don’t overwork the beef—keep the balls loose.
- Preheat the skillet thoroughly before smashing.
- Use parchment paper under your spatula if you don’t have a press.
- For extra indulgence, double up the cheese.
Conclusion
The Johnny Boi Smash Burger is your ticket to going viral at home. With crispy, juicy patties, double cheese, and a next-level sauce, it’s everything a burger should be. Smash it, stack it, and savor every bite. And if you’re still hungry for more, check out this American brunch guide for weekend inspiration.

Johnny Boi Smash Burger
Description
The Johnny Boi Smash Burger is a social media sensation made famous on TikTok and YouTube. Featuring crispy-edged beef patties, melty American cheese, a tangy homemade sauce, and toasted brioche buns, this recipe is the ultimate at-home burger experience.
Ingredients
For the Patties
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Smash Sauce
½ cup mayo
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp white vinegar
Burger Fixings
4 slices American cheese
2 brioche buns (buttered and toasted)
4 pickle slices
Shredded iceberg lettuce
Thin-sliced onions (optional)
Optional Ingredients
Hot sauce or chipotle
Bacon strips
Tomato slices
Grilled onions
Jalapeños
Instructions
Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and chill.
Butter and toast brioche buns until golden.
Heat a cast iron skillet on high until smoking.
Divide ground beef into 4 loose balls.
Smash the patties on the hot skillet using a spatula or press.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 1.5–2 minutes.
Flip, add cheese, and cook for another minute.
Assemble: sauce on bun, lettuce, pickles, patty, onion, second patty, and top bun.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 780kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 52g80%
- Saturated Fat 22g111%
- Sodium 980mg41%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 42g84%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Keep beef loose for better crust formation.
Use parchment paper under your spatula to prevent sticking.
Don’t overwork the meat before smashing.
The sauce can be prepped up to 3 days in advance.