Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers Recipe

If you love bold, spicy flavors and a juicy burger that’s crispy on the edges, then Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are about to become your new go-to burger recipe. Picture this: a perfectly smashed beef patty topped with caramelized onions, zesty jalapeños, and gooey melted cheese all sandwiched between a soft, toasted bun. Trust me, every bite is a satisfying, flavor-packed explosion that will have you coming back for more. These burgers are juicy, smoky, and spicy in all the right ways, and they’re perfect for those nights when you’re craving something epic!

Why You’ll Love Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers

Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

If you’re a fan of a little heat and a lot of flavor, these burgers are going to steal your heart. The jalapeños add a spicy kick, while the caramelized onions bring a touch of sweetness. Combine that with crispy, golden smashed beef patties, and you’ve got a burger like no other.

Customizable Toppings

The beauty of smash burgers is that they’re completely customizable. You can throw on extra cheese, switch up the condiments, or even add some crispy bacon for an extra layer of deliciousness. Go ahead, make it your own!

Quick and Easy

Don’t worry about spending hours in the kitchen—these burgers are super easy and quick to make. With a few simple ingredients and a hot skillet, you’ll have restaurant-quality burgers on your table in no time.

Perfect for Burger Lovers

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging in some comfort food, these burgers are always a hit. They’re juicy, savory, and packed with all the flavors you crave.

Ingredients

For the Burger Patties:

• Ground Beef: The star of the show! Choose 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
• Olive Oil: To help sear the patties to a crispy, golden perfection.

For the Toppings:

• Jalapeños: Fresh, sliced jalapeños for that spicy kick.
• Onions: Sweet onions that will caramelize beautifully as they cook.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese works beautifully with these burgers, but you can swap it out for pepper jack or American cheese for extra creaminess.
• Buns: Soft hamburger buns that will soak up all the delicious juices.

Optional Garnishes:

• Lettuce: Fresh, crispy lettuce to add some crunch and freshness.
• Tomato Slices: A few slices of juicy tomato for a bit of sweetness and texture.
• Pickles: For an extra burst of tangy flavor.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the jalapeños and onions. You can slice the jalapeños into thin rings or leave them in larger slices, depending on your preference for heat. Slice the onions into thin rings for caramelizing.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, until they’re soft and caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Smash the Burger Patties

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, divide the ground beef into equal portions (about 4-6 oz each). Roll them into balls but don’t overwork the meat.

Once the skillet is hot, add a bit more olive oil. Place the beef balls into the skillet and, using a spatula, smash them down firmly into flat patties. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them so they get a nice sear. Flip the patties and immediately top them with a slice of cheese, allowing it to melt as the other side cooks for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

While the patties cook, toast the buns in the same skillet until golden and crispy. This only takes about 1-2 minutes. You can butter them if you like for extra flavor!

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Now for the fun part—assembling! Start with the toasted bun bottoms. Place a juicy, cheesy patty on top, followed by a generous helping of caramelized onions and jalapeño slices. Add your lettuce, tomato, and pickles, if desired. Top with the other half of the toasted bun.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers immediately with your favorite side—crispy fries, a fresh salad, or maybe some onion rings. Dive in and enjoy every spicy, savory bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 520
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 750mg
Total Carbohydrates: 31g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 32g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 15%
Calcium: 20%
Iron: 15%
Potassium: 450mg

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers

• With Fries or Onion Rings: What’s a burger without crispy fries or some golden, crunchy onion rings on the side? They’re the perfect companion to these juicy burgers.
• With a Side Salad: For something lighter, pair your burgers with a fresh, crisp salad to balance out the richness.
• With Cold Beverages: Serve with a cold beer or a refreshing soda for the ultimate burger experience.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Heat: If you really love spice, you can roast the jalapeños before adding them to the burgers to bring out their smoky flavor.
• Add Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch and salty flavor to this already perfect burger.
• Make it Spicy-Sweet: Drizzle a bit of honey or hot sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor that balances the spice of the jalapeños and the sweetness of the onions.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Yes, you can! Ground turkey will work, but it may be a little leaner, so be sure to add some extra seasoning or a little olive oil to keep it juicy.

Q2: Can I make these burgers on the grill instead of the skillet?
A2: Absolutely! Just be sure to get your grill nice and hot, and use a grill-safe spatula to smash the burgers on the grill for that crispy edge.

Q3: Can I use a different cheese?
A3: Yes! Pepper jack cheese would be a fantastic substitute for extra spice, or you could use Swiss or American cheese for a milder flavor.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, but for the best results, reheat in a skillet to keep the texture crispy.

Q5: How can I make these burgers spicier?
A5: Add some chopped fresh chili peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or even a spicy aioli to the top of the burger for a real kick!

Q6: Can I freeze the patties?
A6: Yes, you can freeze the raw patties. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and cook as usual.

Q7: Can I skip toasting the buns?
A7: While toasting the buns adds extra flavor and texture, you can skip it if you’re in a hurry. Just make sure to use fresh, soft buns for the best result.

Q8: Can I use a plant-based patty instead of beef?
A8: Definitely! You can substitute a plant-based burger patty or even a veggie patty if you’re looking for a meat-free option.

Q9: How do I make the onions sweeter?
A9: Caramelizing the onions slowly over medium heat will bring out their natural sweetness. You can also add a touch of sugar or balsamic vinegar during cooking to enhance the sweetness.

Q10: How do I make sure the burgers don’t fall apart while smashing?
A10: Be sure not to overhandle the meat when forming the balls. Smash the patties quickly and firmly once they’re in the skillet. The sear will help hold them together!

Conclusion

These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and crispy goodness. With their juicy smashed patties, caramelized onions, and spicy jalapeños, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your burger rotation. Easy to make, full of flavor, and absolutely satisfying—this is one recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. Enjoy!

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