I used to make 3/4-1 1/2" patties, essentially half a pound of ground beef on a regular sized bun. I kinda grew tired of them, though, because that's how my mom made them my entire childhood. I started trying to stuff them with various things or cheeses, but I eventually realized how much I was disrespecting the meat.

Now I cook them indoors under a vent hood on a 500° griddle. I gently form 3 large meat balls, usually with about 1/3lb of ground 80/20, then put those in the fridge so they don't get too warm. Barely grease the griddle and then sprinkle some salt and pepper over the top of the meatballs before putting them seasoned side down on the griddle. Then I make 3 small piles of frozen diced onions, sprinkle salt and pepper on them, and put a little bit of butter on top just before I smash down each of the 3 meat balls into smash patties. Then I sprinkle a little salt and pepper on each of the patties. By the time I'm done seasoning the raw side, the very edge of the patties have begun to brown and the onions are becoming translucent. Finally, I flip the patties into the onions and gently press down. I grab my plate and the patties are done, so I'll immediately remove them from the heat. Cheese, no cheese: lady's choice. Toss the bun halves on the griddle over the burnt onions and burger fat for an extra-flavorful toast, then dress the bun. By this time, the patties should have rested enough, so I build the burger.

That first bite is bold, salty, somewhat sweet from charred edges, and delicious. But every bite in the middle is meaty, seasoned, oniony goodness. Each patty has a hot-pink center and charred exterior and it's fucking amazing.

Yeah, I don't use those for smash burgers. You technically can, but they tend to delaminate more than they smash. Obviously a good healthy sign when you have delaminating meat.