Recipes by Brad, Simple Recipes anyone can make

Smash Burger With Cheddar & Caramelized Onions (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

This section outlines the key components needed to prepare an authentic smash burger with cheddar & caramelized onions. Each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering bold flavor and delightful texture. Gather these fresh ingredients before starting for the best results.

Ground Beef (80/20 blend) – 1 pound

The 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio ensures each patty stays juicy while developing that signature crust when smashed. The extra fat content keeps the burgers tender and full of rich flavor as they cook quickly over high heat.

Cheddar Cheese – 4 slices

Sharp or medium cheddar cheese brings creaminess and tang to every bite. The cheese melts beautifully over the hot patties, creating a luscious layer that pairs perfectly with savory beef and sweet onions.

Yellow Onions – 2 large

Sliced thinly and cooked slowly, yellow onions become wonderfully sweet as they caramelize. Their deep flavor adds complexity that balances the richness of the beef and cheese in this classic cheeseburger.

Burger Buns – 4 soft buns

Choose soft potato or brioche buns for their pillowy texture. Toasting them lightly boosts flavor and prevents sogginess from juicy toppings so each bite of your smash burger stays structured and delicious.

Kosher Salt & Fresh Black Pepper – to taste

A simple blend of salt and black pepper seasons the patties without overpowering other flavors. Sprinkle just before smashing for maximum impact during cooking.

Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons

Butter is used for both toasting the buns and assisting in caramelizing the onions. It adds richness while helping achieve that lovely golden-brown finish on each component.

Vegetable Oil – 1 tablespoon

This oil withstands high heat well, making it ideal for searing burgers and sautéing onions without burning. It ensures even browning on your patties for optimal texture.

Optional Toppings – pickles, lettuce, tomato

Pickles add brightness; lettuce offers crunch; tomato brings freshness. Add these according to preference for extra layers of taste on your homemade cheeseburger masterpiece.

Burger Sauce (optional) – mayonnaise or special sauce

Creamy sauces like mayonnaise or house-made “special” sauces can be spread on buns to add moisture and tangy notes that complement all other flavors perfectly.

# Instructions:

This detailed guide will walk you through each stage of preparing a truly spectacular smash burger at home. Follow these steps closely to achieve tender beef patties crowned with creamy melted cheddar cheese and deeply flavorful caramelized onions—all stacked on a warm toasted bun.

Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions

Begin by peeling two large yellow onions. Slice them thinly into half-moons using a sharp knife or mandolin for uniform slices. In a large nonstick skillet set over medium-low heat, melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter along with one tablespoon vegetable oil. Add sliced onions and stir to coat evenly in fat. Cook gently for about 25–30 minutes, stirring every few minutes so they don’t burn—patience is key here! When softened deeply golden brown and sweet-smelling, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Shape the Burger Patties

While your onions cook down slowly, divide one pound of ground beef into four equal portions (about four ounces each). Gently roll each segment into loose balls—handle them minimally so they stay tender after smashing. Place shaped balls onto wax paper or a tray; do not flatten yet! Season tops lightly but generously with kosher salt plus freshly cracked black pepper just before cooking for maximum flavor impact later on.

Step 3: Toast the Burger Buns

Melt one tablespoon unsalted butter in another skillet over medium heat or wipe out your onion pan if needed. Slice four buns in half horizontally if not pre-sliced already; place cut sides down in buttered pan until lightly golden brown—about two minutes per batch depending on size of pan. Set toasted buns aside somewhere warm; this step creates structure that holds up under juicy toppings!

Step 4: Smash and Sear the Patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high until very hot—this is essential for those crispy edges! Add two or three beef balls at a time (don’t crowd) to dry pan seasoned-side down; immediately press hard using sturdy spatula (or use parchment between spatula/beef) until patties are about half-inch thick. Let cook undisturbed until edges look deeply browned—about two minutes per side—then flip once only!

Step 5: Add Cheddar Cheese & Finish Cooking

Soon after flipping your patties (while they’re still sizzling), lay one slice sharp cheddar over each patty so it melts fully from residual heat—cover skillet briefly if needed to speed up melting process but avoid steaming too long so crust stays crisp! Allow burgers to finish cooking through (about one more minute) then transfer immediately onto waiting toasted buns.

Step 6: Assemble Your Smash Burgers

Spoon liberal amounts of warm caramelized onion atop each cheesy patty right after placing on buns—it’s fine if some spill off! Layer optional toppings like pickle slices or crisp lettuce leaves if desired then crown everything with bun tops smeared lightly in mayonnaise or special sauce if using. Serve immediately while everything’s piping hot!