Craving a juicy, flavorful burger that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for the best onion smash burger will elevate your burger game to a whole new level. Forget everything you thought you knew about burger perfection; this recipe delivers incredible flavor and texture with minimal effort. It's the perfect quick dinner idea, ideal for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade cooking satisfaction!
Ingredients:
-
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- Your favorite burger toppings (cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, etc.)
-
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions (optional but highly recommended!)
This step adds a depth of flavor that takes this burger from good to unforgettable. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, brown sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Set aside.
Step 2: Smash those Burgers!
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet and immediately smash them down firmly with a spatula to create thin, wide patties. This is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy crust!
Step 3: Season and Cook
Season the smashed patties with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
Step 4: Build Your Masterpiece!
Toast your burger buns lightly. Place a cooked patty on the bottom bun. Top with the caramelized onions and your favorite toppings. Add the top bun and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Onion Smash Burger:
- Don't overwork the beef: Gently form the patties; overmixing will result in tough burgers.
- Use good quality ground beef: The flavor of the beef will significantly impact the overall taste of your burger.
- Get that perfect smash: Press firmly and evenly to create thin patties with a large surface area for maximum crispiness.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your patties and the heat of your skillet. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Bacon, avocado, different cheeses—the possibilities are endless.
Variations:
- Spicy Smash Burger: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ground beef for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Smash Burger: Melt your favorite cheese on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking. Cheddar, pepper jack, and Swiss are all excellent choices.
- Mushroom Smash Burger: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an added earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on toppings)
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This delicious and easy-to-follow recipe for the best onion smash burger is sure to become a family favorite. It's a healthy meal option that's packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy!