This Smashburger Salad Packs Big Flavor—Minus the Heaviness

1. Make Dressing

   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, finely chopped pickles, and brine. 
   

2. Make Cheese Crisps

   Preheat oven to 400°F. Line an extra-large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 12 heaps of cheese (about 1 rounded Tbsp. each) 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheet. Bake until cheese is melted and deep golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; let cool. (They will crisp as they cool.) 

3. Fry Mini Burgers

   Divide ground beef into 12 balls (about 1 Tbsp. each). Heat a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over high until it just begins to smoke. Add six balls to the hot pan and immediately press down on them with a heavy spatula until the patties are 2 to 21/2 inches in diameter. Season generously with salt and ground black pepper. Cook until pools of juice appear on the tops, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip patties and cook until browned and crusty on the second sides, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Repeat with the remaining six balls. 

4. Plate and Serve

   Arrange lettuce, tomatoes, pickle slices, and onion on four plates. Add burgers, cheese crisps, and a drizzle of dressing. If you like, serve with Burger Bun Croutons. 

How to Make Burger Bun Croutons

Place hamburger bun cubes on a baking sheet and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Bake in a 300°F oven until crisp, 14 to 15 minutes.