Description

These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are a flavorful twist on the classic smash burger, featuring caramelized onions with a touch of sweetness and tang, spicy fresh jalapeños, and melted cheddar cheese on perfectly toasted buns. Each burger bursts with crispy, juicy beef patties pressed thin for maximum flavor and texture, complemented by the richness of butter-toasted buns. Ideal for a quick and satisfying meal that delivers bold flavors and a bit of heat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Burgers

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

For the 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)

For the Buns

4 burger buns
2 tbsp butter (for toasting the buns)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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 the onions are caramelized. Stir in the white vinegar and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Season each ball generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
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 burger press, smash each ball down to form thin patties. Sear the patties without moving them for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn crispy and golden. Flip each patty, immediately add a slice of cheddar cheese on top, and cook for another 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked through.
Toast the buns: While the burgers cook, spread butter on the insides of the burger buns. Toast them in a separate pan over medium heat until golden brown and crisp.
Assemble the burgers: Place each cooked smash burger patty on the bottom half of the toasted buns. Top with a generous spoonful of the caramelized onions and slices of fresh jalapeño. Add pickles if desired. Cover with the top half of the buns.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the jalapeño-onion smash burgers immediately with your favorite side dishes such as fries, chips, or a fresh salad for a complete, delicious meal experience.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
Smashing the patties thin helps create crispy edges and intense flavor.
Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat level.
Caramelizing onions slowly enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth.
Butter-toasting buns adds richness and prevents sogginess.
Serve immediately to enjoy the burgers at optimal texture and flavor.