If you’re in the mood for a burger that’s packed with bold flavors and a bit of heat, these Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are the perfect choice. This recipe brings together the satisfying crispiness of a smashed burger with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the caramelized goodness of onions. Smash burgers are known for their thin, crispy edges and juicy centers, and the combination of jalapeños and onions takes this classic to a whole new level. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking on the stovetop, these burgers are a great way to spice up your burger game.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Butter or mayo for toasting the buns (optional)
- Toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite burger sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions and Jalapeños
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and jalapeño peppers, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Form the Beef Balls
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 6 ounces each). Form each portion into a loose ball, being careful not to compact the meat too much.
- Preheat the Griddle or Skillet
- Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough so that the burgers sizzle as soon as they hit the surface.
- Smash the Burgers
- Place the beef balls onto the hot griddle or skillet. Immediately press down firmly on each ball using a large spatula or burger press. Flatten each ball until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Season the burgers with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Burgers
- Let the burgers cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, allowing the edges to become crispy. Flip each burger and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and allow it to melt.
- Assemble the Burgers
- Spread a bit of butter or mayo on the burger buns and toast them lightly on the griddle or skillet until golden. To assemble, place each patty on the bottom bun, top with the caramelized onions and jalapeños, and add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and burger sauce. Finish with the top bun.
- Serve
- Serve the burgers immediately while they’re hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When forming the beef balls, try not to overwork or compact the meat too much. This helps keep the burger tender and juicy.
- Spatula Trick: To get the best smash, use a sturdy metal spatula and press down with all your weight to ensure the burger gets thin and crispy.
- Handling Heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your heat tolerance. You can remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy twist or use Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.
- Bacon Jalapeño Smash Burger: Add crispy bacon to the burger for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Veggie Option: Make a vegetarian version by using a plant-based burger patty and cooking it in the same way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pepper? A: Yes, you can use different types of peppers such as poblano or bell peppers if you prefer a milder flavor. Serrano peppers are also a good choice for an extra kick.
Q: How do I prevent the burgers from sticking to the spatula? A: To prevent sticking, you can place a piece of parchment paper between the spatula and the meat when smashing. This helps ensure a clean smash and easy release.
Q: Can I make the burgers ahead of time? A: It’s best to cook the burgers fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can prep the jalapeños and onions ahead of time to save some effort.
These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are a delicious way to elevate your burger game. With their crispy edges, spicy kick, and rich, cheesy topping, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking on the grill or the stovetop, these burgers are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. Try them for your next cookout or casual family dinner and watch everyone reach for seconds!
