Are you craving a juicy, flavorful burger that's surprisingly easy to make at home? Look no further! This smash burger recipe with onions is your ticket to burger bliss. Forget dry, underwhelming patties – this method ensures a perfectly crispy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior every single time. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers incredible results, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade cooking satisfaction!
Ingredients:
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For the Burgers:
- 1 lb 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.)
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For Caramelized Onions (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Getting Started: Prep Your Onions
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If making caramelized onions, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions, brown sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Set aside. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor to your burgers, transforming a simple dish into a truly gourmet experience.
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If you prefer simpler sautéed onions, heat olive oil in a pan, add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly browned. Set aside. This is a quicker option for those short on time.
Smashing Success: Cooking the Burgers
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Adding a little olive oil will help prevent sticking.
- Gently place one meatball onto the hot pan and immediately smash it down with a spatula to create a thin, wide patty. Repeat with the remaining patties. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
- Season both sides of the smashed patties generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F.
- During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese (if using). Let the cheese melt beautifully.
Assembly and Serving: The Grand Finale
- Toast your burger buns lightly.
- Place the cooked burger patties on the bottom buns.
- Top with your favorite toppings. Adding the caramelized or sautéed onions at this stage brings an incredible sweetness and texture to the dish.
- Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Smash Burgers:
- Use good quality ground beef: An 80/20 blend provides the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overwork the meat: Gently form the patties and avoid compacting the beef too much.
- Smash them flat: The thinner the patty, the crispier the exterior will be.
- High heat is key: This ensures a good sear and prevents the burgers from becoming greasy.
- Use a heavy pan: This helps to distribute heat evenly.
Variations:
- Spicy Smash Burgers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the ground beef.
- Mushroom Smash Burgers: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy twist.
- Bacon Smash Burgers: Crispy bacon is always a winner!
Nutritional Information (per burger, approximate):
- Calories: 450-550 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This smash burger recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's quick, delicious, and adaptable to your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you'll master this recipe in no time. Enjoy your perfectly smashed burger!