Buttered Lobster Cheddar Smash Burgers

If you love a good cheeseburger, topping it with warm buttered lobster takes it to a completely different level. This surf and turf dinner is rich, juicy, and surprisingly easy to make at home, combining crispy smashed patties, melted cheddar, and sweet buttery lobster in one unforgettable burger.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smash burger technique for maximum flavor. Firmly smashing the patties creates deeply browned, crispy edges.
• That buttered lobster topping. Sweet lobster meat tossed in butter and garlic takes this burger over the top.
• Ready in 25 minutes. An impressive dinner for two that doesn’t take long to make.
• Steakhouse flavor at home. A restaurant-worthy surf and turf experience without leaving the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Burgers

• 1 lb ground beef, 80/20
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 brioche buns
• 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard, optional
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 2 tomato slices

For the Buttered Lobster

• 4 oz cooked lobster meat, chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 pinch garlic powder
• 1 tsp lemon juice, optional

For the Finish

• Garlic aioli or spicy remoulade, optional

How to Make Buttered Lobster Cheddar Smash Burgers

1. Prep the burgers. Divide the ground beef into 2 loose balls without packing them tightly. Mix the mayonnaise with Dijon mustard and spread it over the toasted brioche buns.

2. Smash the burgers. Heat a skillet until very hot. Add the beef balls and firmly smash them into thin patties. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until deeply browned.

3. Add the cheddar. Flip the burgers and place a slice of sharp cheddar on each one. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the burgers are cooked through and the cheddar is melted.

4. Make the buttered lobster. Melt the butter in a small skillet over low heat. Add the lobster meat, garlic powder, and optional lemon juice. Toss gently for about 1 minute, just until the lobster is warm and coated in butter.

5. Build the surf and turf burgers. Layer lettuce and tomato onto the bottom buns. Add the cheesy smash burgers, then generously spoon the warm buttered lobster over the top. Add garlic aioli or spicy remoulade, if desired.

6. Finish and serve. Add the top buns and serve immediately while the cheddar is melted, the burgers are juicy, and the buttered lobster is still warm.

Tips for the Best Buttered Lobster Smash Burgers

• Keep the beef balls loose, not packed. This helps them smash thin and crispy without becoming dense.
• Use a very hot skillet. High heat is essential for that deep, caramelized crust that makes smash burgers special.
• Warm the lobster gently. Since it’s already cooked, a quick minute in butter is all it needs to avoid becoming tough.
• Assemble right before serving. This keeps everything at its best temperature and texture.

What to Serve with Buttered Lobster Cheddar Smash Burgers

Crispy fries or a simple side salad round out the meal nicely. Extra garlic aioli or remoulade on the side never hurts either.

Frequently Asked Questions