These Thousand Island BBQ smash burgers really hit the spot: juicy, thin patties topped with crisp, fresh ingredients and a creamy sauce that nods to the classic “special sauce” but with its own BBQ-forward twist. A touch of chili sauce adds gentle heat and sweetness, Worcestershire adds savory depth, and a smoky hickory barbecue sauce brings that unmistakable BBQ character. A simple sauce like this can turn an ordinary burger into something special.
Easy And So Delicious
Thousand Island BBQ smash burgers are easy to make and don’t require fancy gear—just a hot griddle or skillet and a way to press the patties thin. Any flat cooking surface works, whether it’s a grill, stovetop griddle, or an outdoor flattop. Focus on thin patties, good-quality toppings, and that flavorful sauce for the best results.
Try other smash burger variations such as Cowboy Big Mac Smash burgers or Swamp Sauce Smash burgers, and check out a reliable go-to burger sauce for more options.
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Thousand Island BBQ Smash Burgers
Equipment
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Mixing bowl
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Smash burger press or heavy spatula
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Grill, griddle, or large skillet
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Spatula or griddle tools
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (such as Heinz)
- 4 teaspoons your favorite BBQ sauce (hickory recommended)
- 1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the burgers
- 1 pound ground beef (form into four 4-ounce patties)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 4 pieces iceberg lettuce, torn or chopped
- 4 slices tomato
- 4 slices onion
- 6 slices dill pickle
Instructions
For the sauce
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Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.
For the burgers
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Heat your grill or griddle to medium-high. You can also use a large skillet on the stove.
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Season patties generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Place patties on the hot surface and press them thin with a spatula or burger press.
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Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, until nicely seared.
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Top each patty with a slice of cheese and cook just until melted. Remove from heat.
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Toast the buns if desired.
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Assemble burgers by spreading sauce on the bottom bun, adding the patty, then onion, lettuce, tomato and pickles.
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Spread more sauce on the top bun, close the burger and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 34 g
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Protein: 30 g
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Fat: 42 g
Nutritional values are approximate.