Whether you’re vegan for ethical, environmental, or health reasons, that doesn’t mean you don’t crave a great burger.
Many fast-food chains now offer plant-based burgers, fries, and sides, but how does Smashburger compare?
Let’s take a look at what vegan-friendly menu items Smashburger offers—and where it falls short.
What Can Vegans Eat at Smashburger?
Smashburger does not offer a dedicated vegan burger. Even their Black Bean Burger contains eggs and dairy, making it unsuitable for vegans.
However, there are still a few plant-based items you can order with modifications.
Build-Your-Own Vegan Burger
Smashburger offers a “Craft Your Own Burger” option, but you’ll need to customize it heavily.
- Bun Options: None. You’ll have to use a lettuce wrap, as all buns contain dairy or eggs.
- Toppings:
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Red onion
- Pickles
- Fresh jalapeños
- Guacamole
- Fresh sliced avocado
Avoid: The Black Bean Patty (contains eggs and dairy), all buns, and grilled onions or mushrooms (contain dairy).
Some locations are testing a plant-based Jack & Annie’s patty, but it is cooked on a shared grill and still has no vegan bun option.
Vegan Salad Option
The only guaranteed vegan menu item is the Side Salad.
- Order it without cheese and add one of the vegan-friendly dressings.
While basic, this can be a light meal option, especially if paired with avocado or guacamole.
Vegan Sauces at Smashburger
Smashburger has only three confirmed vegan sauces.
- Ketchup
- BBQ Sauce
- Mustard
The Smash Sauce is not vegan as it contains eggs.
Dairy-Free Milkshakes at Smashburger
Surprisingly, while Smashburger lacks vegan burgers and fries, they do offer dairy-free milkshakes. Just be sure to order without whipped cream.
Dairy-Free Shake Flavors
- Cookies & Cream
- Vanilla
- Strawberry
- Chocolate
- Peanut Butter
These shakes are made with non-dairy milk, but always double-check with your location to confirm ingredients.
What Isn’t Vegan at Smashburger?
Many seemingly plant-based items at Smashburger are not vegan due to their cooking methods or hidden ingredients.
Non-Vegan Items to Avoid
- Black Bean Burger – Contains eggs and dairy
- All Buns – Contain dairy or eggs
- Fries, Tots, and Fried Veggies – Cooked in beef tallow (beef fat)
- Brussels Sprouts – Fried in beef tallow
- Grilled Onions & Mushrooms – Contain pasteurized cream
- Smash Sauce – Contains eggs
Even simple toppings like onions and mushrooms aren’t vegan, making customization difficult.
Cross-Contamination at Smashburger
Smashburger does not have separate cooking areas for plant-based foods, meaning:
- All grilled items share a grill with meat.
- Fried foods (including fries and veggies) are cooked in beef fat.
If cross-contamination is a concern, Smashburger may not be the best choice for a vegan meal.
Final Thoughts
Smashburger is one of the least vegan-friendly fast-food chains we’ve reviewed.
With no vegan burgers, fries, or dedicated plant-based options, your only choices are a side salad, some veggies in a lettuce wrap, or a dairy-free milkshake.
Even many basic toppings and sides contain animal products, making customization difficult.
Hopefully, Smashburger will expand its vegan menu in the future, but for now, it’s not the best option for plant-based eaters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Black Bean Burger at Smashburger Vegan?
No. It contains eggs and dairy and is cooked on a buttered grill.
Are There Any Vegan Buns at Smashburger?
No. All buns contain dairy or eggs. The only option is a lettuce wrap.
Are the Brussels Sprouts at Smashburger Vegan?
No. They are fried in beef tallow, making them not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Are the Fries at Smashburger Vegan?
No. Fries, sweet potato fries, and tots are all cooked in beef fat.
Are the Onions at Smashburger Vegan?
No. Grilled onions contain pasteurized cream, and raw onions are cooked on a shared grill with butter.
Can I Order Crimini Mushrooms as a Vegan?
No. The sautéed Crimini mushrooms contain dairy and are cooked on a shared grill.
Does Smashburger Have Any Vegan Sauces?
Yes, but options are limited to ketchup, BBQ sauce, and mustard.
Is There a Vegan Burger at Smashburger?
No. However, some locations are testing a Jack & Annie’s plant-based burger, but it’s cooked on a shared grill and has no vegan bun option.
What’s the Best Vegan Option at Smashburger?
The side salad with a vegan dressing is the only fully vegan menu item. If you’re okay with cross-contamination, you can build a lettuce-wrapped burger with veggies.
