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Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers

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These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers combine the classic smash burger technique with the bold flavors of caramelized onions and spicy jalapeños. The result is a juicy, flavorful burger with a crispy exterior, perfect for spice lovers and burger enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

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For the Burger Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1½ tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Smash Burgers:

 

  • pounds high-quality 80% lean ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon canola oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
  • 1 large jalapeño chile, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
  • 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted

Instructions

  • Prepare the Burger Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and kosher salt.
    • Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
  • Prepare the Onions and Jalapeños:
    • Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add the canola oil.
    • Add the sliced onions and jalapeños to the skillet.
    • Season with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
    • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and the jalapeños are softened, about 10-15 minutes.
    • Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
  • Form the Burger Patties:
    • Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (approximately 3 ounces each).
    • Gently form each portion into a loose ball; avoid overworking the meat to maintain tenderness.
    • Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to cook.
  • Cook the Smash Burgers:
    • Wipe the skillet clean and return it to high heat until it begins to smoke slightly.
    • Place a few beef balls into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd.
    • Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, firmly press down each ball to flatten it into a thin patty.
    • Season the patties with a pinch of the remaining kosher salt and black pepper.
    • Cook until the edges are crispy and the center is cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
    • During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty to melt.
  • Assemble the Burgers:
    • Spread a generous amount of the prepared burger sauce on the cut sides of the toasted hamburger buns.
    • Place a cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun.
    • Top with a spoonful of the caramelized onion and jalapeño mixture.
    • Add any additional desired toppings.
    • Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing.
  • To achieve the best crust on the burgers, ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the beef.
  • These burgers pair well with classic sides like fries or a simple salad.