Smashing Patty with Confidential Sauce

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Confidential Sauce
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the **Confidential Sauce**—mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce (if using). Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference (add more honey for sweetness or more hot sauce for heat). Set the sauce aside and allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the patties.

#### Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 1/4 lb each) and gently form them into balls. Do not overwork the meat to keep the patty tender. When you’re ready to cook, heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.

#### Step 3: Smash the Patties
Once the pan is hot, place the meat balls onto the skillet. Use a spatula or a burger press to firmly smash each ball into a thin patty. Smash it down quickly, as this helps develop a delicious crust on the edges of the patty. Season generously with salt and pepper. Allow the patties to cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crispy, golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.

#### Step 4: Flip the Patties and Add Cheese
Flip the patties carefully and immediately top each patty with a slice of cheese. Allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the patty is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

#### Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, slice your burger buns in half and butter the cut sides. Toast the buns in a separate pan or on the grill until golden brown. Toasting the buns adds an extra layer of flavor and helps them hold up against the juicy patty and sauce.

#### Step 6: Assemble the Burger
Once everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your burger. Spread a generous amount of **Confidential Sauce** on both the top and bottom halves of the toasted buns. Place the melted cheeseburger patty on the bottom bun. Top with your favorite optional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, caramelized onions, or jalapeños.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Place the top bun on the burger and serve immediately with your favorite sides, like crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a fresh salad. This burger is juicy, flavorful, and packed with a unique sauce that will make every bite a memorable one.

### Tips for the Perfect Smashing Patty:
– **Meat Selection:** Use ground beef that’s about 80% lean and 20% fat for the juiciest patty. This ratio will give you a tender, flavorful burger.
– **Smashing the Patty:** The key to a good smashed burger is creating that crispy crust. Make sure the skillet is very hot before you smash the patty, and don’t be afraid to press down firmly.
– **Sauce Variations:** You can experiment with the confidential sauce by adding ingredients like relish, chipotle peppers, or even a little lemon juice for a tangy twist.
– **Serving:** For a fun presentation, serve your burgers with pickled vegetables on the side or a small bowl of extra sauce for dipping.

### Why You’ll Love Smashing Patty with Confidential Sauce:
– **Juicy and Flavorful:** The smashed patty creates a crispy, caramelized crust, locking in all the juices for a burst of flavor in every bite.
– **Unique Sauce:** The **Confidential Sauce** is a delicious blend of creamy, tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors that take this burger to the next level.
– **Customizable:** With so many topping options, you can make each burger your own and cater to everyone’s preferences, from classic to spicy or savory.

### Conclusion:
**Smashing Patty with Confidential Sauce** is the burger of your dreams—juicy, flavorful, and topped with a sauce that’s truly addictive. Whether you’re grilling in the summer or enjoying a cozy dinner indoors, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for an unforgettable burger experience. So fire up the grill, get your skillet ready, and prepare to enjoy one of the best burgers you’ve ever tasted!