Sonic’s New Double Queso Smasher: A Deliciously Detailed Recipe Breakdown

Sonic Drive-In has done it again, capturing our taste buds with their latest creation: the Double Queso Smasher. This burger isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. A symphony of savory beef, creamy queso, and perfectly toasted buns, all harmonizing to deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite. For those of us who can’t get enough, or perhaps don’t have a Sonic nearby, recreating this culinary masterpiece at home is entirely possible. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the smashing technique, ensuring your homemade Double Queso Smasher is a delectable rival to the original.

## Understanding the Double Queso Smasher Magic

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s dissect what makes the Double Queso Smasher so irresistible. The key components are:

* **Smashed Patties:** Thin, crispy-edged patties cooked to perfection, maximizing surface area for that Maillard reaction (the browning that creates intense flavor).
* **Queso Sauce:** A rich, creamy, and slightly spicy cheese sauce that blankets the patties.
* **Toasted Brioche Bun:** A soft and slightly sweet bun that complements the savory elements.
* **Optional Toppings:** Pickled jalapenos for heat, shredded lettuce for crunch, and maybe even some diced tomatoes for freshness (though the original is fairly minimalist).

## Ingredients: Your Shopping List

To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients. Quality is key, so choose the best you can find:

* **For the Smashed Patties (2 double cheeseburgers):**
* 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and fat content)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* 2 slices American cheese per burger (4 total)
* Optional: Burger seasoning of your choice (but simple salt and pepper is best to let the beef shine)
* **For the Queso Sauce:**
* 4 tablespoons (60ml) unsalted butter
* 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
* 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
* 8 ounces (225g) Velveeta cheese, cubed
* 4 ounces (115g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* Salt and white pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped pickled jalapenos (optional, for the sauce or as a topping).
* **For the Buns and Assembly:**
* 4 Brioche buns, or your favorite burger buns
* 2 tablespoons (30ml) butter, melted, for toasting the buns
* Optional toppings: Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, extra pickled jalapenos

## Equipment: Tools of the Trade

Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

* **Large Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle:** Essential for achieving that perfect smash and crust.
* **Metal Spatula:** A thin, sturdy spatula is crucial for flipping and scraping the patties.
* **Parchment Paper Squares:** For smashing the patties without sticking.
* **Small Saucepan:** For making the queso sauce.
* **Whisk:** To ensure a smooth queso sauce.
* **Basting Brush:** For buttering the buns.

## Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Masterpiece

Now for the fun part! Follow these steps carefully to create your own Double Queso Smasher:

### 1. Preparing the Queso Sauce:

* **Make the Roux:** In the saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth paste (the roux). This will thicken the sauce.
* **Add the Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly.
* **Melt the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be patient; this may take a few minutes.
* **Season the Sauce:** Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Add chopped pickled jalapenos if you like a spicy kick in the sauce.
* **Keep Warm:** Keep the queso sauce warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk.

### 2. Preparing the Smashed Patties:

* **Divide the Beef:** Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces or 57g each). Gently form each portion into a loose ball. *Do not overwork the meat; this will make the patties tough.* The less you handle the meat the better!
* **Heat the Skillet:** Place the cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. It should be very hot. A drop of water should sizzle and evaporate almost instantly.
* **Smash the Patties:** Place a ball of ground beef on the hot skillet. Immediately place a square of parchment paper over the beef. Use a sturdy spatula (or a burger press, if you have one) to press down firmly on the parchment paper, smashing the beef into a very thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. The thinner the better!
* **Season and Cook:** Remove the parchment paper. Immediately season the patty with salt and pepper (or your preferred burger seasoning). Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until a dark brown crust forms on the bottom. The edges should be crispy.
* **Flip and Repeat:** Use the metal spatula to carefully flip the patty. Season the other side with salt and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through. If you want a slightly pink center, cook for less time.
* **Add Cheese:** During the last 30 seconds of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty to melt. Repeat the smashing and cooking process for the remaining beef portions.

### 3. Toasting the Buns:

* **Butter the Buns:** While the patties are cooking, brush the cut sides of the brioche buns with melted butter.
* **Toast the Buns:** Place the buttered sides of the buns down on the hot skillet or griddle and toast for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

### 4. Assembling the Double Queso Smasher:

* **Bottom Bun:** Place the toasted bottom bun on a clean surface.
* **First Patty:** Place one cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun.
* **Queso Sauce Layer:** Generously spoon a layer of queso sauce over the patty.
* **Second Patty:** Place another cheese-topped patty on top of the queso sauce.
* **More Queso:** Add another generous spoonful of queso sauce over the second patty.
* **Optional Toppings:** If desired, add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or extra pickled jalapenos.
* **Top Bun:** Place the toasted top bun on top of the toppings (or directly on the queso, if you’re going minimalist).
* **Serve Immediately:** Serve your Double Queso Smasher immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

## Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Smasher

* **Use the Right Beef:** An 80/20 blend of ground beef is crucial for that juicy, flavorful patty. The fat renders and creates a delicious crust.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet:** Cook the patties in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning.
* **Get the Skillet Hot:** A hot skillet is essential for achieving that crispy, smashed crust. Be patient and let it heat up properly before adding the beef.
* **Smash with Confidence:** Don’t be afraid to smash the patties firmly. The thinner they are, the crispier they’ll be.
* **Keep the Queso Warm:** A cold queso sauce will quickly cool down your burger. Keep it warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
* **Experiment with Toppings:** While the original Double Queso Smasher is relatively simple, feel free to experiment with different toppings to customize your burger. Caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or a fried egg would all be delicious additions.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Tailor the amount of cayenne pepper and pickled jalapenos in the queso sauce to your desired level of spice.
* **Cheese Choice Matters:** Velveeta is key for the smooth, melty texture of the queso. Don’t substitute with cheddar or other cheeses, as the texture will be different.

## Variations and Customizations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Double Queso Smasher, feel free to get creative and experiment with variations:

* **Spicy Queso Smasher:** Add more cayenne pepper and pickled jalapenos to the queso sauce for a fiery kick.
* **Bacon Queso Smasher:** Add crispy bacon strips to the burger for a smoky, savory twist.
* **Mushroom Queso Smasher:** Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and garlic and add them to the burger for an earthy flavor.
* **BBQ Queso Smasher:** Mix BBQ sauce into the queso sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
* **Single Queso Smasher:** If you are not that hungry or want a healthier version, you can just make a single patty version of the recipe.

## Serving Suggestions

The Double Queso Smasher is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:

* **French Fries:** A classic pairing! Serve your burger with crispy french fries, seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika.
* **Onion Rings:** Another delicious side option. Opt for homemade onion rings for an extra special treat.
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing coleslaw can help cut through the richness of the burger.
* **Pickles:** Dill pickles or sweet gherkins are a great palate cleanser.
* **Soda or Milkshake:** Wash it all down with your favorite soda or a creamy milkshake.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per burger):

* Calories: 800-1000 (depending on toppings and ingredients)
* Fat: 50-70g
* Saturated Fat: 30-40g
* Cholesterol: 200-250mg
* Sodium: 1500-2000mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Protein: 40-50g

**Note:** This is an estimate, and the actual nutritional content may vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

## Conclusion: Savoring the Homemade Smasher Success

Recreating Sonic’s Double Queso Smasher at home is a rewarding experience. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can enjoy a burger that rivals the original in taste and satisfaction. The combination of crispy smashed patties, creamy queso sauce, and toasted brioche buns is a true delight. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to smash your way to burger perfection! The only limit to your experience is how creative you are willing to go.
Enjoy this mouthwatering journey and feel free to customize it to your unique preferences. Happy cooking!