An AI-tuned version of the viral smash burger adds Philly cheesesteak flavors — and the result is even more addictive than the original.
There are smash burgers … and then there’s the kind that quietly take over your entire feed.
So we did what Chopped does best: We asked AI to improve one of the internet’s most viral comfort foods — the smash burger — and push it just a little further.
The result? A Philly Cheesesteak Smash Burger that combines two iconic cravings into one unapologetically indulgent bite.
Built on the classic technique of a thin, crispy-edged smash patty, this version layers in the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak — sautéed peppers and onions, melty cheese, and rich, savory beef that crisps up at the edges while staying juicy inside.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels familiar the moment you see it … and somehow still surprising when you take the first bite.
Why This Works
AI didn’t reinvent the smash burger — it refined it.
Instead of overcomplicating things, it focused on what makes the format so popular in the first place:
- fast cooking time
- crispy, caramelized edges
- high-impact flavor in every layer
Then it leaned into what makes a Philly cheesesteak irresistible: sweetness from onions, richness from beef, and that unmistakable melted cheese pull.
The result is a hybrid that feels like it was always meant to exist.
The Recipe
This version starts with seasoned ground beef smashed directly onto a hot skillet until it forms a deeply caramelized crust. Thinly sliced onions and peppers are cooked alongside or folded in, depending on how layered you want the flavor.
American cheese melts directly into the meat while the bun is toasted until golden and slightly crisp.
Everything comes together in minutes — but tastes like it took far longer.
View the full recipe and customize it further depending on how messy, cheesy, or over-the-top you want to go.
The Takeaway
The smash burger has already proven itself as one of the internet’s most reliable food trends. But this Philly cheesesteak version shows how far it can still go — with just a few smart tweaks.
Sometimes the best recipes aren’t new. They’re just better.
Share Your Favorite Recipes
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Chopped is powered by people alongside Cookie, our AI sous-chef. Every cook and kitchen is unique, so be sure to check seasoning, temperature, and cook time as you go. Consult packaging for dietary information and always follow food safety guidelines.
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