Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions 🍔🧅🔥

Craving a diner-style burger with crispy edges and melty cheese? These Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions are your answer! Thin, juicy patties are cooked to perfection, topped with sweet, golden caramelized onions, and served on toasted buns with classic fixings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers bold flavors for burger lovers!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: ~600 kcal per burger

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Ingredients

• 500g ground beef (80/20 for best flavor, or beef substitute for plant-based option)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 burger buns (gluten-free if preferred)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles, for topping
• Ketchup and mustard, for serving

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Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft, golden, and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Prep the Patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently form into loose balls (avoid over-packing for tender patties).
3. Smash and Cook: Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot. Place beef balls on the skillet and smash them down firmly with a spatula or burger press to form thin patties. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until edges are crispy and browned.
4. Flip and Cheese: Flip patties, immediately add a slice of cheddar cheese to each, and cook for 1–2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast burger buns on the skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden.
6. Assemble: Place patties on the bottom buns, then top with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and a drizzle of ketchup and mustard. Cap with the top bun.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Try adding bacon or a fried egg for an extra indulgent burger.
• Swap cheddar for Swiss or pepper jack for a flavor twist.

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Tips

• Keep it Loose: Don’t overwork the beef when forming balls to ensure juicy, tender patties.
• Hot Skillet: A screaming-hot skillet is key for that crispy, caramelized crust.
• Storage: Store leftover patties and onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

Sink your teeth into these Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions for a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality experience at home! 🍔🧅🔥