why make this recipe
Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic hamburger. The combination of juicy beef, crispy onions, and spicy jalapeños creates a fantastic flavor that will impress anyone at your table. This recipe is perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or any time you crave a hearty meal. With easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up these mouthwatering burgers in no time.
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 all burger sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and chill until you are ready to use it.
- Divide the beef into 8 (3-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a loose ball. Place them on a plate, cover, and chill while preparing the grill.
- Cut a 3-inch square of parchment paper and set it aside. Preheat the grill to high (450°F to 500°F). Place a large cast-iron skillet or griddle on the grill to preheat. Alternatively, you can heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle on the stove over high heat.
- Drizzle the skillet evenly with oil. Depending on your skillet size, arrange onion slices in 8 small mounds (about 1/4 cup each), spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Top each onion mound with jalapeño slices (about 1 tablespoon each), and sprinkle evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook undisturbed until the onions begin to brown, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Place 1 meatball on each onion mound. Top with the parchment paper square, and press firmly to flatten using a sturdy spatula to form a 4-inch-wide patty. Remove the parchment paper. Repeat the process with the remaining meatballs and onion mounds.
- Sprinkle the smashed patties evenly with the remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook undisturbed until the patties begin to crisp around the edges, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Flip the patties so that the onion-jalapeño mixture is on top. Place 1 cheese slice on each of 4 patties and continue cooking until the patties are well browned and the cheese is melted, about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Top each cheese-covered patty with a plain patty to create 4 double stacks. Transfer each stack to a bottom bun.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on each top bun and place them on top of the patties. Serve immediately.
how to serve Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
To serve these burgers, simply place them on a plate with your favorite sides. Fries, chips, or a fresh salad are great accompaniments. You can also add extra toppings like pickles or lettuce if desired. They are best enjoyed right away while the cheese is melted and the patties are hot.
how to store Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
If you have leftovers, you can store the burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through. The buns may get a bit soggy, so consider toasting fresh buns for serving again.
tips to make Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; let the patties develop a good crust.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapeños.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for variety.
variation (if any)
You can make these burgers with turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, try adding other toppings like avocado or bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQs
Can I make the burger sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
What can I serve with these burgers?
These burgers pair well with fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I know when the burgers are done?
The burgers should have a nice brown crust on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F for ground beef.
Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- Stir together all burger sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and chill until ready to use.
- Divide the beef into 8 (3-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a loose ball. Cover and chill while preparing the grill.
- Cut a 3-inch square of parchment paper and set it aside. Preheat the 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 oil. Arrange onion slices in 8 small mounds (about 1/4 cup each), spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Top each mound with jalapeño slices and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Place 1 meatball on each onion mound. Top with the parchment paper square and press firmly to flatten using a sturdy spatula to form a 4-inch-wide patty. Remove the parchment paper.
- Repeat with remaining meatballs and onion mounds. Sprinkle the smashed patties with remaining salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed until the patties begin to crisp around the edges, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Flip the patties so that the onion-jalapeño mixture is on top. Place 1 cheese slice on each of 4 patties and cook until well browned and cheese is melted, about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Top each cheese-covered patty with a plain patty to create 4 double stacks. Transfer each stack to a bottom bun.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on each top bun and place them on top of the patties. Serve immediately.