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This Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burger recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen with its perfectly caramelized onions, spicy jalapeños, and juicy beef patties smashed to crispy perfection. The technique creates those irresistible crispy edges while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
I first made these burgers during a summer cookout when I wanted something more exciting than standard burgers. The combination of the crispy edges and spicy-sweet toppings had everyone asking for seconds. Now they're requested at every family gathering.
Ingredients
- Ground beef 80% lean 20% fat offers the perfect fat content for juicy burgers while still creating a nice crust when smashed
- Yellow onion provides natural sweetness when caramelized that balances the heat
- Fresh jalapeños add a bright spicy kick that can be adjusted to your preference
- American cheese melts perfectly and adds creamy richness to each bite
- Simple sauce ingredients combine for a tangy smoky spread that pulls everything together
- Toasted buns provide structure and buttery flavor to hold all the deliciousness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Special Sauce
- Combine mayonnaise ketchup Worcestershire garlic powder and seasonings in a small bowl. Stir until completely smooth with no streaks remaining. The sauce should be slightly tangy with a hint of garlic. Cover and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld while preparing the rest of the components.
- Caramelize the Onions and Jalapeños
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat until you can feel warmth hovering over it. Add oil and swirl to coat the entire surface. Add thinly sliced onions and jalapeños spreading them evenly across the pan. Season with salt and pepper which helps draw moisture out. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes stirring occasionally not constantly to allow proper browning. You want the onions golden and soft and the jalapeños slightly collapsed.
- Prepare the Beef
- Divide your ground beef into 8 equal portions using a gentle touch. Avoid squeezing or overworking the meat which makes tough burgers. Form loose balls that hold together but aren't compacted. Chill them briefly which helps them hold shape during the smashing process.
- Smash and Cook
- Heat your cleaned skillet until it's screaming hot almost smoking. Place beef balls in the skillet leaving plenty of space between them. Immediately press down firmly with a spatula or press using significant pressure to create thin patties about 1/4 inch thick. Season the exposed side with salt and pepper. Cook until the edges turn brown and crispy about 2 minutes. Flip carefully using a thin spatula making sure to scrape up all the crispy bits. Add cheese immediately after flipping and cook about 1 minute more.
- Build Your Burgers
- Spread a generous layer of burger sauce on both top and bottom buns. Place a cheesy patty on the bottom bun. Top with a spoonful of the onionjalapeño mixture spreading it evenly. Add the top bun and press gently to bring everything together.
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The jalapeños are truly the star ingredient here. I discovered the perfect balance when my daughter who typically avoids spicy food couldn't stop eating these burgers. The caramelization tames their heat just enough while concentrating their flavor.
Controlling the Heat Level
The spice level in these burgers comes primarily from the jalapeños. For milder burgers remove all seeds and white membrane before slicing. For medium heat remove half the seeds. For maximum heat leave everything intact and even add an extra jalapeño. Remember that cooking the peppers does reduce their spiciness compared to raw jalapeños.
Make-Ahead Options
These smash burgers are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle but you can prepare components ahead. The burger sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The onionjalapeño mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and reheated before serving. You can even form the beef balls the morning of cooking and keep them refrigerated until ready to smash.
The Perfect Cheese Choice
While American cheese is traditional for smash burgers due to its superior melting qualities you have options. Pepper jack adds extra heat and stretchy melt. Sharp cheddar brings more flavor intensity but doesn't melt as smoothly. For a more gourmet version try a slice of bleu cheese which creates a funky savory contrast to the spicy vegetables.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I reduce the spiciness of the jalapeños?
To reduce the heat, remove the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeños before slicing. This will tame their spiciness while maintaining the flavor.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of American cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it melts well.
- → What is the best way to get a crispy burger crust?
Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the beef, and press the patties firmly during cooking to maximize contact with the surface.
- → Can I prepare the burger sauce in advance?
Yes, the burger sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → What sides pair best with these burgers?
Classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad work wonderfully to complement the bold flavors of these burgers.