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Crispy Smash Burgers Recipe with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce Made Easy

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A quick and easy smash burger recipe featuring crispy, juicy patties, sweet caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce. Perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 slices cheese (American or sharp cheddar)
  • 4 sturdy, soft burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • Special Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon pickle relish (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions (15-20 minutes): Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally until onions soften and turn deep golden brown.
  2. Make the Special Sauce (5 minutes): Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
  3. Form the Beef Patties (5 minutes): Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces / 115 g each). Shape each into a loose ball without overworking the meat.
  4. Heat the Skillet (2-3 minutes): Increase heat to medium-high until the pan is hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  5. Smash and Cook the Patties (6-8 minutes total): Place one beef ball in the skillet and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten into a thin patty (~1/4 inch / 6 mm thick). Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and brown. Flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook another 2 minutes until melted and cooked through. Repeat with remaining patties.
  6. Toast the Buns (2 minutes): Lightly toast buns cut-side down in the same or separate skillet until golden and slightly crisp.
  7. Assemble the Burgers: Spread special sauce on bottom bun, add crispy patty with melted cheese, top with caramelized onions, then the top bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for juicy patties. Handle meat gently to avoid tough burgers. Cook onions low and slow for best caramelization. Use a hot skillet and do not move patties while cooking to develop a crispy crust. Toast buns lightly for extra texture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Dairy-free cheese and mayo substitutes can be used for lactose intolerance.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, crispy burgers, caramelized onions, special sauce, quick burger recipe, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/crispy-smash-burgers-recipe-with-caramelized-onions-and-special-sauce-made-easy/