Copycat Sonic Double Smasher Burger (Better Than Drive-Thru!)

I still remember the first time I tried to recreate a Sonic Double Smasher at home. After countless drive-thru visits, I was determined to master this seemingly simple yet consistently satisfying burger. My first attempts were disappointing until I discovered the secret: proper smashing technique and the perfect sauce.

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After numerous test batches and experimenting with different beef blends, cooking temperatures, and sauce combinations, I finally cracked the code. The result was not just as good as Sonic’s version but even better. The homemade patties had a more substantial beefy flavor, the freshly chopped onions provided the perfect crunch, and my version of the signature smasher sauce took the entire burger to new heights. Now, instead of heading to Sonic when a craving hits, my family requests my homemade version, which has become our go-to burger for weekend cookouts and quick weeknight dinners alike.

What makes the Sonic Double Smasher so good? 

Want a gourmet mushroom burger with fancy cheese and heritage bacon? Sorry, you won’t find that here. But this copycat Sonic Double Smasher burger recipe offers one of the best smash burgers you’ve ever had.

So, what is a Sonic Smasher? It’s Sonic’s version of a classic diner smash burger known for its crispy, thin patties, tangy crinkle-cut pickles, chopped onion, melted cheese, and their signature smasher sauce between a pillowy soft potato bun. There is absolutely nothing fancy here, just an old-school cheeseburger done right. But my, oh, my, how simply delicious it is. 

Why you should try this recipe 

• Better quality – Use superior ingredients than what fast food chains typically offer
• Perfectly crispy edges – Proper smashing technique creates the ideal texture
• Customizable – Adjust the doneness and toppings to your preference
• Budget friendly – Make four burgers for the price of one or two from the drive-thru
• No wait time – Skip the drive-thru line and make these whenever you want
• Signature sauce – The homemade smasher sauce elevates the entire burger
• Simple ingredients – Uses common items you likely already have in your kitchen

Double Sonic Smasher ingredients

For the Sonic Smasher Sauce, you’ll need:

• Mayonnaise – Creates the creamy base that holds all sauce ingredients together
• Ketchup – Adds tanginess and a touch of sweetness to balance the sauce
• Yellow mustard – Contributes classic burger flavor and slight acidity
• Dijon mustard – Provides a more complex, deeper mustard flavor
• Smoked paprika – Adds subtle smokiness without using actual smoke
• Ground black pepper – Gives the sauce a gentle heat and depth
• Worcestershire sauce – Creates umami richness and enhances the beefy flavor
• White sugar – Balances the acidity and brings all flavors together

For the Sonic Smasher Burger, you’ll need:

• Ground beef – The foundation of the burger; 85/15 blend offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture
• Unsalted butter – Used for toasting the buns, creating a rich flavor and preventing sogginess
• Potato buns – Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all components without falling apart
• American cheese – Melts perfectly and provides that authentic fast food burger taste
• Yellow onion – Adds sharp flavor and essential crunch to contrast with the soft bun and beef
• Crinkle-cut pickle slices – Bring acidity and brightness that cuts through the richness
• Salt – Enhances the natural beef flavor and creates a delicious crust
• Ground black pepper – Adds gentle heat and complexity to the burger patties

You can use 80/20 ground chuck, but a leaner 85/15 blend will get rid of some of the grease without drying out the patties. 

How to make it 

To prepare the Sonic Smasher Sauce:

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all the Smashsauce ingredients. 
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge until needed. You can make the smashsauce a day in advance for a more intense flavor. 

To cook the patties:

1. Divide the ground beef into eight loose equal balls and set them off to the side. Don’t press the meat too firmly while forming the balls, or the burgers will be too dense. 
2. Heat a flat griddle or large cast iron skillet over high heat. 
3. Once the cooking surface is hot, place a ball of meat on it and press it down with a greased spatula or burger press. It is essential to press the meat a few seconds after placing it on the cooking surface to keep from squeezing all the juice out of it. Repeat with a few of the other balls of burger meat, but don’t overcrowd the cooking area. 
4. Season the top of the smashed patties with salt and ground black pepper. 
5. Cook the patties until the edges are dark brown and crispy. 
6. Flip the burgers and season the cooked side with salt and ground black pepper. 
7. Add a slice of cheese and cook the patties for another 30 seconds. Remove to a plate.
8. Repeat with any remaining patties. 

To assemble the Sonic Smasher burger:

1. Spread the softened butter on the inside of the buns and toast in a dry skillet over medium heat.  Place toasted buns off to the side. 
2. While the buns are toasting, dice the yellow onion into small pieces. Keep the diced onion for later. 
3. Spread the Smashsauce on the bottom bun. 
4. Pile the two cooked patties with cheese on top. 
5. Sprinkle on the diced yellow onions and add four pickle slices.
6. Spread the Smashsauce on the top bun and then close the sandwich. 
7. Serve immediately. 

Homemade Sonic Double Smasher Burger

Skip the drive-thru and create Sonic’s famous Double Smasher at home! With perfectly smashed beef patties, melty American cheese, fresh toppings, and homemade Smasher sauce, this copycat version is even better than the original.