If you love bold flavours and messy, indulgent burgers, these pickle dip smashburgers are about to become your new obsession. They combine everything that makes smashburgers incredible with a punchy, herby pickle dip that takes things to the next level. These pickle dip smash burgers are crispy on the outside, juicy in the middle, and stacked with layers of texture and flavour.
Pickle dip smashburgers are a fun twist on classic American smashburgers, combining crispy-edged beef patties with a creamy, tangy pickle-loaded topping. Inspired by the popularity of viral pickle dips, this recipe balances richness with acidity for a bold, craveable bite. The contrast of hot, juicy beef and cool, herby creamy dip makes these burgers feel indulgent yet fresh, perfect for pickle addicts, casual dinners, game day gatherings, or elevated comfort food at home.
If you are a pickle lover like me, why not try my cheesy pickle breakfast tacos! Some other beef burger recipes I love include my fakeaway five guys burgers or my spicy caramelised onion burgers.
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Ingredients
For the pickle dip
- Greek yoghurt - Lightens the dip and adds a slight tang. I like using Greek yoghurt because it keeps the dip fresh rather than overly heavy.
- Gherkins - The star of the show. They bring crunch, acidity, and that signature pickle flavour that defines these pickle dip smashburgers.
- Gherkin juice - Boosts the pickle flavour and adds extra zing. The pickle juice helps the dip cut through the richness of the beef in the pickle dip smashburgers.
- Spring onions - Add a mild sharpness and freshness. They balance the creamy elements and stop the dip from feeling too rich.
- Jalapeño - Brings a subtle heat that lifts the whole dip. I love adding jalapeño because it gives these pickle dip smashburgers a slight kick without overpowering the other flavours.
- Crispy bacon - Adds saltiness and crunch. Bacon makes the dip feel indulgent and gives another layer of texture to the pickle dip smashburgers.
- Garlic granules - Provide a mellow, savoury depth that blends smoothly into the dip.
- Paprika - Adds warmth and a subtle smokiness that complements the beef.
- Onion granules - Enhance the savoury flavour and round out the dip.
- Dried parsley - Adds a light herbal note and a bit of colour.
- Fresh dill - Classic with pickles. It adds brightness and a fresh, slightly grassy flavour that makes these pickle dip smashburgers really stand out.
For the Smashburgers
- Beef mince - The foundation of great pickle dip smashburgers. A higher fat content in the ground beef gives you juicy patties with crispy edges.
- Paprika - Adds warmth and enhances the crust when the burgers are smashed.
- Cajun seasoning - Brings a bold, slightly spicy flavour that pairs perfectly with the creamy pickle dip in these pickle dip burgers.
- Garlic granules - Boost the savoury depth of the beef.
- Yellow mustard - Helps tenderise the meat and adds tang. I love using mustard in pickle dip smashburgers because it enhances the crust and flavour.
- Brioche buns - Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for holding all the juicy layers of these pickle dip smashburgers.
- Cheese slices - Melt into the patties for that classic gooey texture. Essential for proper pickle dip smashburgers.
- Lettuce - Adds crunch and freshness, which balances the richness.
- Burger sauce - Creates a flavourful base layer. I like using burger sauce because it adds sweetness and tang that works perfectly with the pickle dip.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
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- Step 1: Add the cream cheese, Greek yoghurt, diced gherkins, gherkin juice, spring onions, jalapeño, crispy bacon, garlic granules, paprika, onion granules, dried parsley, and fresh dill to a bowl.
- Step 2: Taste and adjust if needed, then set aside in the fridge to chill. This helps the flavours develop and makes the pickle dip even better for your pickle dip smashburgers.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine the beef mince with paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic granules, and yellow mustard. Mix gently until just combined. Divide into balls depending on whether you want single or double pickle dip smashburgers (you'll need less mince for single). Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender. Lightly toast the brioche buns until golden.
Spread a thin layer of burger sauce on the bottom bun and top with lettuce. This creates a barrier that stops the buns from going soggy and helps you assemble your pickle dip smashburgers quickly.
- Step 4: Heat a pan over medium heat with a little oil. Place the beef balls into the pan and immediately smash them down using a spatula. For easier smashing, you can use small squares of parchment paper between the spatula and the meat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crispy and caramelised. This is key for that classic pickle dip smashburgers texture. Flip each patty and immediately add a slice of cheese. Cover briefly to help the cheese melt perfectly.
5: Step 5: Place the hot patties onto the prepared buns. Top each with a generous spoon of pickle dip and any extra crispy bacon if you like.
Hint: Use beef with a higher fat content for the best texture. This helps create crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy. If the meat is too lean, your pickle dip smashburgers may turn out dry and lack that classic smashburger richness that balances the creamy pickle topping.
Substitutions
Cream cheese – Use mascarpone for a richer, slightly sweeter base or mayonnaise for a looser, more indulgent texture. Dairy free cream cheese also works well for a vegan friendly option.
Greek yoghurt – Swap with creamy sour cream for extra richness or use a thick dairy free yoghurt for a lighter, tangy alternative.
Gherkins – Use cornichons for a sharper bite or chopped pickled cucumbers for a slightly milder, fresher flavour.
Gherkin juice – Replace with pickle brine from any jar or use a splash of white vinegar with a pinch of salt for acidity.
Spring onions – Use finely diced red onion for a sharper taste or chives for a milder, more delicate onion flavour.
Jalapeño – Swap with red chilli for more heat or use pickled jalapeños for a tangier, slightly milder spice.
Bacon – Use turkey bacon for a lighter option or smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a plant based alternative with smoky flavour.
Garlic granules – Replace with fresh minced garlic cloves for a stronger flavour or garlic powder for a slightly milder, more evenly distributed taste.
Paprika – Use smoked paprika for deeper flavour or chilli powder for a spicier kick.
Onion granules – Swap with finely grated fresh onion or onion powder for a similar savoury depth.
Dried parsley – Use fresh parsley for a brighter flavour or dried mixed herbs for a more rounded herbal note.
Fresh dill – Replace with fresh chives or tarragon for a different but complementary herby freshness.
Beef mince – Swap with chicken or turkey mince for a lighter option or plant based mince for a vegetarian version.
Cajun seasoning – Use taco seasoning for a similar spice blend or a mix of paprika, garlic, and cayenne for a DIY version.
Yellow mustard – Replace with Dijon mustard for a sharper flavour or wholegrain mustard for added texture.
Brioche buns – Use potato buns for softness or ciabatta rolls for a slightly crispier bite.
Cheese slices – Swap with cheddar, American cheese, or a dairy free cheese alternative depending on preference.
Lettuce – Use iceberg for crunch, little gem for structure, or shredded cabbage for extra texture.
Burger sauce – Replace with mayonnaise mixed with ketchup and mustard or use ranch dressing or aioli for a richer, garlicky twist.
Variations
Spicy Pickle Dip Smashburgers - Add extra jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or chopped pickled chillies to the dip. Swap standard cheese for pepper jack and finish with a drizzle of spicy mayo. These pickle dip smashburgers become punchier, with layers of heat balancing the creamy and tangy elements.
BBQ Bacon Pickle Dip Smashburgers - Add a smoky twist by mixing a little BBQ sauce into the burger sauce and topping with extra crispy bacon. You can also add caramelised onions for sweetness. These pickle dip smashburgers lean into rich, smoky flavours while still keeping that signature tangy pickle contrast.
Chicken Pickle Dip Smashburgers - Swap beef mince for seasoned chicken mince for a lighter version. Cook in the same smashburger style for crispy edges. Pair with the same pickle dip and lettuce for freshness. These pickle dip smashburgers feel slightly lighter but still deliver on flavour and texture.
Equipment
Mixing bowl
Storage
Store leftover components separately for best results. Keep cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a hot pan to help restore some of the crispy texture before assembling your pickle dip smashburgers again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the patties soft.
The leftover dip should be stored in a sealed container in the fridge and will stay fresh for up to three days. Stir before using, as some separation may occur. The flavours often deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Store buns at room temperature in a sealed bag or plastic wrap, and lettuce in the fridge, wrapped to maintain crispness. For best quality, assemble pickle dip smashburgers fresh rather than storing them fully built, as this prevents soggy buns and keeps textures at their best.
Top Tip
Have everything prepped before cooking begins. Smashburgers cook quickly, so timing is crucial. If your buns, lettuce, and pickle dip are ready, you can assemble your pickle dip smashburgers immediately. This keeps the patties hot, the cheese perfectly melted, and the final result balanced and fresh.
FAQ
Pickle dip will last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Keep it chilled and stir before serving, as slight separation can occur. For best flavour and freshness, enjoy within the first 1 to 2 days.
The key is high heat and smashing once only, right at the start. Press firmly to create thin patties, then leave them undisturbed so a deep crust forms. This gives smash burgers their signature crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Beef mince recipes
These are my favourite beef mince recipes to try if you like this recipe:
Recipe
Pickle Dip Smashburgers
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- large pan
Ingredients
For pickle dip
- 2 tablespoon cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon Greek yoghurt
- 200 g gherkins diced
- 1 tablespoon juice from gherkins
- 2 spring onions sliced
- 1 jalapeño diced
- 4 bacon rashers fried until crispy then diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion granules
- ½ teaspoon dried parleys
- 1 tablespoon chopped dill
For the burgers
- 300 g-500g beef mince depending on whether you do double patties (15-20% fat)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 2 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 4 brioche buns
- 8 cheese slices
- 1 head lettuce
- 2-3 tablespoon burger sauce
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Add the cream cheese, Greek yoghurt, diced gherkins, gherkin juice, spring onions, jalapeño, crispy bacon, garlic granules, paprika, onion granules, dried parsley, and fresh dill to a bowl.2 tablespoon cream cheese, 1 tablespoon Greek yoghurt, 200 g gherkins, 1 tablespoon juice from gherkins, 2 spring onions, 1 jalapeño, 4 bacon rashers, 1 teaspoon garlic granules, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon onion granules, ½ teaspoon dried parleys, 1 tablespoon chopped dill
- Taste and adjust if needed, then set aside in the fridge to chill. This helps the flavours develop and makes the pickle dip even better for your pickle dip smashburgers.
- In a bowl, combine the beef mince with paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic granules, salt, pepper and yellow mustard. Mix gently until just combined. Divide into balls depending on whether you want single or double pickle dip smashburgers (you'll need less mince for single). Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender. Lightly toast the brioche buns until golden.300 g-500g beef mince, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic granules, 2 teaspoon yellow mustard, salt and pepper
- Spread a thin layer of burger sauce on the bottom buns and top with lettuce. This creates a barrier that stops the buns from going soggy and helps you assemble your pickle dip smashburgers quickly.4 brioche buns, 2-3 tablespoon burger sauce, 1 head lettuce
- Heat a pan over medium high heat with a little oil. Place the beef balls into the pan and immediately smash them down using a spatula. For easier smashing, you can use small squares of parchment paper between the spatula and the meat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crispy and caramelised. This is key for that classic pickle dip smashburgers texture.
- Flip each patty and immediately add a slice of cheese. Cover briefly to help the cheese melt perfectly.8 cheese slices
- Place the hot patties onto the prepared buns. Top each with a generous spoon of pickle dip and any extra crispy bacon if you like.
