Description
This Garlicky Onion Smash Burger recipe features juicy, crispy-edged beef patties topped with sweet caramelized onions infused with garlic, melted cheddar cheese, and your choice of fresh toppings. Cooked on a stovetop skillet, these burgers deliver rich, savory flavors with a simple technique that ensures maximum taste and texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garlicky Onions
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Assembly
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: pickles, lettuce, tomato, burger sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlicky Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter combined with vegetable oil. Add the sliced onions and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Remove the mixture from heat and set aside.
- Form Beef Patties: Divide the ground beef evenly into 4 balls. Season each ball with salt and black pepper to taste before cooking.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot to ensure proper searing.
- Smash and Cook Patties: Place each ground beef ball on the hot skillet and immediately smash it flat with a heavy spatula or burger press to create a thin patty. Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a crispy, browned crust.
- Flip and Add Cheese: Flip each patty carefully, then place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked through.
- Toast Buns and Assemble: Toast the burger buns if desired. Place each cheese-topped patty onto the buns, then spoon the garlicky caramelized onions over each burger. Add optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, tomato, or burger sauce to taste. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Smashing the burgers creates a crispy edge and juicy center; use a firm spatula and press firmly for best results.
- For enhanced flavor, mix a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce into the ground beef before forming the patties.
- Use gluten-free buns to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Cook patties on a very hot skillet to ensure a good sear and flavorful crust.
