Description
If bold, spicy, and juicy burgers are your thing, this Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burger is about to become your new favorite. With crispy caramelized onions, fiery jalapeños, and thin smashed patties seared to perfection, every bite packs a punch of flavor and texture. It’s the perfect combination of heat, crunch, and melty cheese—all stacked on a soft toasted bun.
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Ingredients
For the Smash Patties:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
For the Jalapeño-Onion Topping:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
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2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
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Pinch of salt
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Pinch of sugar (helps caramelize the onions)
For Assembling:
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4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns work great)
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2 tbsp butter, for toasting buns
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Lettuce or arugula (optional)
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Tomato slices (optional)
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Burger sauce or mayo
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Pickles (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Onions and Jalapeños
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add sliced onions and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add jalapeño slices, a pinch of salt, and sugar.
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Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until onions are golden and jalapeños are softened.
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Set aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Form and Season the Patties
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Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each).
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Roll each into a loose ball—no need to shape into patties yet.
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Season the tops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Smash and Sear the Burgers
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Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot.
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Place 1 or 2 beef balls in the pan, spaced apart.
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Immediately press down with a spatula (use parchment paper between the burger and spatula if needed) to flatten the patties thinly.
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Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
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Flip and immediately top with cheese. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until cheese melts.
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Repeat with remaining beef.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
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In a clean pan or griddle, melt butter over medium heat.
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Toast the cut sides of the buns until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
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Spread burger sauce or mayo on the bottom bun.
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Layer on lettuce, tomato, or pickles if using.
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Add a cheesy smash patty.
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Top with a generous spoonful of the jalapeño-onion mixture.
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Finish with the top bun and press lightly to set.
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Serve hot with fries, chips, or a simple side salad.
Notes
Use High Heat – A hot pan is essential for that signature crispy crust.
Smash Quickly – Flatten as soon as the beef hits the pan.
Don’t Flip Too Soon – Let the crust form before flipping for maximum flavor.
Cheese It Up – Melt the cheese while the second side cooks for gooey perfection.
Customize the Heat – Adjust jalapeño quantity or remove seeds to control spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American