Liquid smoke isn't cheating.

Yes, you can get smoky flavor on burgers without a smoker. The easiest way is liquid smoke or smoked salt.

Liquid smoke is exactly what it sounds like—actual smoke condensed into water. A few drops mixed into the ground beef before forming patties does the job. Don’t overdo it; a little goes a long way. Smoked salt or smoked paprika also works if you prefer dry ingredients.

If you have a gas or charcoal grill, you can also add soaked wood chips in a foil pouch or directly on the coals. That’s not a smoker, but it gets close. Just don’t open the lid too often.

No grill? Liquid smoke in the pan or oven will still give you that campfire taste.

It’s not cheating, it’s just flavor.