Description

This Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers recipe is a flavorful and juicy burger option featuring caramelized onions, spicy fresh jalapeños, melted cheddar cheese, and perfectly toasted buns. The patties are smashed and seared in a hot skillet to develop a crispy, golden crust while remaining tender inside. With the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy elements, these burgers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any meal occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Burger

1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
4 burger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
2 tbsp butter (for toasting the buns)

Toppings

1 large onion (sliced)
2 fresh jalapeños (sliced)
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
1 tbsp brown sugar (for caramelizing onions)
1 tbsp white vinegar (for a little tang)
Pickles (optional, for extra crunch)

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Instructions

Prepare the toppings: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and brown, about 10-12 minutes. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they caramelize. Stir in the white vinegar and cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.
Prepare the patties: Form the ground beef into 4 equal portions, rolling them into balls. Season each ball with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook the burgers: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot. Place the beef balls in the pan, and using a spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down to form a thin patty. Sear for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden. Flip the patties, and immediately place a slice of cheese on top of each one. Let the cheese melt as the burgers cook for another 2 minutes.
Toast the buns: While the burgers are cooking, butter the insides of the burger buns and toast them in a separate pan over medium heat until golden brown.
Assemble the burgers: Place the cooked smash patties on the bottom half of the toasted buns. Top each patty with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions and a few slices of jalapeños. Add pickles if desired, and top with the other half of the bun.
Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite sides—fries, chips, or a simple salad!

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness in your burgers.
Adjust the number of jalapeños to control spice level.
For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the beef before forming patties.
Caramelize onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness—don’t rush this step.
Make sure the skillet is very hot before smashing the patties to get a nice crust.
Butter the buns to ensure they toast to a crisp, golden perfection.
Pickles are optional but add a nice crunchy contrast.