If you’ve ever wanted to make East Lake’s delicious burger at home, look no further. The smashburger served at Mac’s Shack, the halfway house at East Lake Golf Club, is not only mouth-watering but also comes with a compelling story. Named after a longstanding employee, Mac Tomlinson, the burger is a symbol of classic Americana and comfort food. When East Lake decided to revamp its halfway house menu, they held a competition among staff members to create the perfect burger.
Legend has it that Mac’s original burger was so delicious that people would visit the club just for lunch. The winning entry, the Waggle Burger, is made with a Wagyu beef patty, melted American cheese, and a secret Waggle Sauce created by the club’s president and general manager, Chad Parker. To recreate the burger at home, it’s essential to start with a hot cooking surface, like a cast-iron pan, and smash the beef patty firmly to create a crispy outer crust while keeping the inside juicy.
According to Lauren Rosenzweig, East Lake’s Director of Food and Beverage, the key to a great smash burger is the cheese. American cheese is the preferred choice as it melts quickly and evenly. Rosenzweig believes a true smash burger should always be a double patty on a three-inch potato roll, which is softer and sweeter than a traditional bun. The perfect combination of quality ingredients is what makes the Waggle Burger so successful, according to Rosenzweig.
For those who want to try making the Waggle Sauce at home, here’s the recipe courtesy of Chad Parker: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp. ketchup, 1 tbsp. yellow mustard, 1 tbsp. Sambal or Sriracha, 1 tbsp. sweet relish, 1 tbsp. spicy dill pickles, 1 tsp. spicy dill pickle juice, a pinch of kosher salt, and a pinch of fresh cracked black pepper. Following this recipe can help you replicate the flavors of the famous Waggle Burger at home.
While making a perfect smash burger may seem like a tough order, following the right techniques and using quality ingredients can make a significant difference in the final result. East Lake’s burger is a testament to the fact that a burger isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a piece of American culinary history and tradition. Whether you’re a fan of classic diner fare or just appreciate a good burger, trying out a smashburger recipe at home can be a fun and delicious culinary adventure.
