Description
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
Units
Scale
For the Burger Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 1/2 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 1/2 cup)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 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.