Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls. Do not pack tightly—keeping them loose creates crispy edges when smashed.

Heat your flat top or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.

Place a beef ball onto the hot surface. Immediately smash it using a sturdy spatula or burger press. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Let the patties cook for 1–2 minutes without moving them so a golden crust forms.

Flip the patties and add Swiss cheese on top. Let it melt into all the crispy edges.

Toast the brioche buns cut-side down on the griddle until lightly golden and warm.

Start with the bottom bun, add a drizzle of BBQ sauce, place the cheesy smashed patty on top, add bacon if you’re using it, then pile on a generous handful of French’s crispy onions.

Drizzle with more BBQ sauce and finish with the top bun.

Enjoy while everything is hot, melty, and perfectly crunchy!