1. Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, finely diced dill pickle, pickle juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Set aside.

2. Form the Burger Balls: Gently divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Roll each portion loosely into a ball, about 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can make the burgers tough. Place the balls on a plate and set aside.

3. Heat the Cooking Surface: Place a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed griddle over high heat. Allow it to preheat for at least 5-7 minutes until it’s smoking hot. This high heat is crucial for achieving the perfect crust.

4. Toast the Buns (Optional but Recommended): While the skillet is heating, lightly butter the cut sides of your hamburger buns. Once the skillet is hot, place the buns cut-side down on the skillet for 30-60 seconds, or until lightly golden brown. Remove and set aside. This step prevents soggy buns.

5. Smash and Cook the Patties: Add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil to the hot skillet. Place two beef balls onto the skillet, leaving some space between them. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper or a large metal spatula over each beef ball and use a sturdy spatula or bacon press to firmly press down on each ball, smashing it into a thin patty, about 1/4-inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6. Flip and Add Cheese: Cook the smashed patties for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned, and you see juices bubbling on top. Carefully scrape under the patty with your spatula to release it from the pan, then flip. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top of each patty.

7. Finish Cooking and Assemble: Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160 F (71 C). Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and repeat with the remaining beef balls.

8. Build Your Burgers: Spread a generous amount of the special sauce on both halves of each toasted bun. Place the cheesy smash burger patty on the bottom bun. Add your desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and extra pickles. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately.