Why Make This Recipe
Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are a delightful twist on the classic burger. They combine juicy beef with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and spicy jalapeños, topped with melted American cheese. This recipe is perfect for backyard barbecues or a fun weeknight dinner. The unique cooking method creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. It’s a delicious way to spice up your burger game!
How to Make Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 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
- 1 1/2 pounds high-quality 80% lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 1 large yellow onion, very thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1 large jalapeño chile, very thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 4 American cheese slices
- 4 soft hamburger buns, split and toasted
Directions:
- Stir together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt in a small bowl. Cover and chill until ready to use.
- Divide the ground beef into 8 portions and shape each portion into a loose ball. Place the balls on a plate and chill while you prepare the grill.
- Cut a 3-inch square of parchment paper and set it aside. Preheat your grill to high (450°F to 500°F). Place a large cast-iron skillet or griddle on the grill to preheat. You can also heat it on the stove over high heat.
- Drizzle the skillet evenly with canola oil. Arrange the sliced onions in 8 small mounds (about 1/4 cup each) on the skillet, leaving at least 2 inches between them. Top each onion mound with jalapeño slices, about 1 tablespoon each. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the onions start to brown.
- Place one meatball on each onion mound. Cover each with the parchment paper square and press down firmly to flatten the beef into a 4-inch-wide patty. Remove the parchment paper and repeat with the remaining meatballs and onion mounds.
- Sprinkle the smashed patties with the remaining 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook until the edges are crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Flip each patty so the onion and jalapeño mixture is on top. Top 4 patties with a cheese slice and continue cooking until the cheese melts, about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Stack each cheese-covered patty onto a plain patty to create 4 double stacks. Transfer each stack to a bottom bun. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the burger sauce on each of the top buns and place them on top of the patties. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
These burgers are best enjoyed hot off the grill. Serve them with your favorite side dishes like fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad. Feel free to add extra toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles for an even more delicious experience.
How to Store Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
If you have leftovers, store the burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
- Choose Quality Beef: Using high-quality ground beef ensures a juicy and flavorful burger.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the onions and jalapeños to cook undisturbed for the best browning.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese for added flavor.
Variation
For a milder version, you can replace jalapeños with roasted red peppers. It will add a sweet flavor without the heat.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but cook them until they reach a safe internal temperature.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
You can use cheddar, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well.
Can I prepare the burger sauce in advance?
Yes, the burger sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for extra convenience.
Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- Stir together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt in a small bowl. Cover and chill until ready to use.
- Divide the ground beef into 8 portions and shape each portion into a loose ball. Place the balls on a plate and chill while you prepare the grill.
- Cut a 3-inch square of parchment paper and set it aside. Preheat your grill to high (450°F to 500°F). Place a large cast-iron skillet or griddle on the grill to preheat.
- Drizzle the skillet evenly with canola oil. Arrange the sliced onions in 8 small mounds (about 1/4 cup each) on the skillet, leaving at least 2 inches between them. Top each onion mound with jalapeño slices, about 1 tablespoon each. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the onions start to brown.
- Place one meatball on each onion mound. Cover each with the parchment paper square and press down firmly to flatten the beef into a 4-inch-wide patty. Remove the parchment paper and repeat with the remaining meatballs and onion mounds.
- Sprinkle the smashed patties with the remaining 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook until the edges are crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Flip each patty so the onion and jalapeño mixture is on top. Top 4 patties with a cheese slice and continue cooking until the cheese melts, about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Stack each cheese-covered patty onto a plain patty to create 4 double stacks. Transfer each stack to a bottom bun.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of the burger sauce on each of the top buns and place them on top of the patties. Serve immediately.