Essential Griddle Tools for Smash Burgers: The Must-Have Gear 🍔

Making a great smash burger is all about the crust.

To get those crispy, lacy edges, you need to apply heavy pressure to a ball of ground beef on a ripping hot surface.

While you can technically use a basic kitchen spatula, having a dedicated set of heavy-duty tools makes the process much more consistent and a lot less messy.

A solid kit should include a weighted press, a stiff, sharp-edged spatula, and a cover to melt the cheese quickly without overcooking the meat.

Here are two options we recommend:

Buy Grilliance Griddle Tools on Amazon

Buy EWFEN Griddle Accessories on Amazon

Why the Right Tools Matter for the Smash

If you try to smash a burger with a flimsy plastic spatula, it will flex, and you won't get the thin, even contact needed for a proper sear.

The "smash" creates a Maillard reaction — that savory, brown crust — which is the whole point of this cooking style.

You need tools that can handle high heat and significant force.

Most people starting out realize quickly that they also need a way to clean the griddle as they go.

Scrapers and sturdy spatulas help clear away bits of stuck-on meat between batches, ensuring every burger gets a fresh start on the metal.

The All-in-One Solution: Grilliance 27-Piece Kit

If you are looking for a complete setup, the Grilliance 27pcs Griddle Accessories Kit is a strong starting point.

It is designed specifically for flat-top grills like the Blackstone.

The standout part of this set for burger lovers is the enlarged spatula and the basting cover.

The spatulas are wide enough to support a full burger, and the basting cover is essential for that final step where you need the cheese to go from a cold slice to a gooey drape in seconds.

It also includes a burger press, which saves your wrists from the effort of pushing down on a spatula.

Buy Grilliance 27pcs Griddle Accessories on Amazon

If you're curious about how these tools solve common problems like uneven patties or center-puffing, it helps to understand the mechanics: What Is a Burger Press Used For? Easy Guide & Tips

More Variety: The 35-Piece Heavy Duty Set

For those who want a bit more variety in their tool belt, the 35PCS Griddle Accessories Kit offers even more utility.

Like the Grilliance, it features enlarged spatulas that won't buckle under the weight of a double patty.

This set is particularly useful if you find yourself cooking for large groups.

With more spatulas and scrapers, you can have one person smashing and another flipping without sharing tools.

The inclusion of a scraper is a big plus here; it’s the most important tool for keeping your griddle surface smooth and ready for the next round of searing.

What to consider: The sheer volume of tools in EWFEN 35-piece set can be overwhelming for beginners.

The quality is reliable for backyard use, but the handles are typically heat-resistant plastic, so you still have to be careful not to leave them resting against the side of a hot griddle for too long.

Buy EWFEN 35PCS Griddle Accessory Set on Amazon

The Bottom Line

To master the smash burger, prioritize a heavy burger press and a wide, stiff spatula.

Both the Grilliance and the 35-piece kits provide these essentials along with covers for melting cheese.

If you want a more focused set, the Grilliance is excellent, while the 35-piece kit is better for the cook who wants every possible gadget for their outdoor kitchen.

Common Questions About Smash Burger Tools

Do I really need a burger press?

You can use a heavy spatula, but a press provides even pressure and keeps your hand further away from the heat.

It makes getting that paper-thin edge much easier.

What is the basting cover for?

Because smash burgers cook so fast, the cheese often doesn't have time to melt before the meat is done.

Placing a cover over the patty for 30 seconds traps steam and melts the cheese instantly.

Can I use these tools on a cast iron skillet?

Yes.

These tools work perfectly on a large cast iron skillet indoors, though you'll want to make sure you have enough room to maneuver the wide spatulas.

P.S. – If you are just getting started with your flat-top, our guide to essential griddle accessories for beginners breaks down the first five things you should buy.