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The often-cited ratio of 80/20 ground beef—80% lean to 20% fat—is considered ideal for achieving that perfect harmony between flavor and texture. When preparing the beef, it's essential to incorporate enough fat to keep the patties moist and flavorful. As you mix the beef, it's crucial to avoid excessive handling, which can introduce air bubbles that might cause the patties to break apart when smashed. Forming the beef into balls, roughly the size of a golf ball, prepares them for the crucial smashing process.