Ah, the sweet aroma of a summer’s day filled with sizzling burgers on the grill! There’s just something magical about biting into a juicy burger. And let me tell you, when it comes to burgers, my heart will always sing for the Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers. These beauties not only hit that perfect juicy spot, but they also bring a delightful kick from the jalapeños that makes every bite an experience to remember.
I still remember the first time I made these burgers for my friends during a backyard BBQ. I had gone a little overboard with the jalapeño, thinking I was some sort of burger maestro. Let me assure you, the delicious chaos that ensued was well worth it! Laughter filled the backyard as we all reached for extra napkins and glasses of water. From that day on, these burgers became a staple at every summer gathering, and each time, they spark joy, laughter, and yes, a little spice!
What’s in Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers?
Ground Beef (80/20 blend): Ah, the star of the show! A blend that’s 80% meat and 20% fat keeps the burgers juicy and flavorful. I prefer using grass-fed beef when I can find it—it’s a little pricier, but oh, the taste is worth every penny!
Medium Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed to perfection, onions add a sweetness that balances the heat of the jalapeños. You can also use red onions for a slightly different flavor profile.
Fresh Jalapeños: This is where the magic—and heat—happens! I usually slice up 1-2 fresh jalapeños to sprinkle on each burger. Adjusting how many you use will determine how fiery they get, so choose your spice level wisely!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar on top of the melted burger patty is just pure melty goodness. While I love sharp cheddar, feel free to use your favorite cheese for a personal touch.
Burger Buns: Brioche buns are where it’s at! Their slight sweetness and buttery flavor are the perfect vessel to hold all that juicy goodness.
Mayonnaise, Ketchup & Dijon Mustard: This trifecta makes a creamy and tangy spicy sauce that ties all the flavors together.
Hot Sauce (optional): Because why not crank up the heat a notch?!
Olive Oil: A drizzle for sautéing those lovely onions and cooking burgers to perfection.
Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (optional): A fresh garnish adds a wonderful hint of color and freshness to the dish.
Is Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers Good for You?
Well, let’s dish out the real talk about these delicious burgers!
Ground Beef: Packed with protein, iron, and B vitamins, beef can certainly be part of a balanced diet. Just be conscious of the fats; that 80/20 blend makes it richer than some healthier options.
Jalapeños: These spicy little gems are low in calories and have fantastic health benefits, including being loaded with antioxidants and vitamins. Just remember that they can also cause heartburn for some folks, so don’t overdo it if you’re sensitive.
Onions: Onions are a powerhouse of nutrients, containing antioxidants that promote heart health and can even boost the immune system. Sautéing them maximizes their flavor, taking your burgers to a new level.
On the flip side, these burgers do pack some calories, especially when topped with cheese and served with buns. So, if you’re on a health kick, consider pairing them with a refreshing salad instead of fries!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (or cheese of choice)
– 4 burger buns (brioche recommended)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
This recipe serves 4 folks (or just me if I’m feeling especially hungry)!
How to Make Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers?
1. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce (if you’re feeling daring) until you have a deliciously spicy sauce. Set it aside while you get your hands dirty!
2. Grab a skillet or griddle, heat it over medium-high heat, and drizzle a little olive oil in there—this is serious business!
3. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté until they’re gold and soft, about 5 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside; patience is a virtue!
4. Divide the ground beef into 4 portions and casually roll them into loose balls. Hey, they don’t need to be perfect yet!
5. Place the beef balls in the same skillet. Smash them down with a spatula to create those iconic thin patties. Go ahead and season them liberally with salt and pepper.
6. Let the patties cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, just until they’re beautifully seared. Flip them over and, while they’re sizzling away, add the sautéed onions, fresh jalapeños, and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is all gooey and melted. Yes, please!
7. As the patties work their magic, toast those burger buns in another pan or under a broiler until they’re golden brown. A little crunch is always a good idea.
8. Time to assemble! Spread the spicy sauce on the bottom bun, followed by the glorious cheeseburger patty with all its toppings. Cap it off with the top bun and—voilà!
9. Serve immediately, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley. Enjoy the flavor explosion!
Sizzling Suggestions: Bringing Your Burgers to Life!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, add other toppings like avocado slices or crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor!
– To keep things lighter, you could swap the ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based alternatives—just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
– These burgers make great meal prep options! Just cook and then freeze the patties. Pop them on the grill or in the skillet when you need a quick meal.
I can hardly wait for you to try out these Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers! I hope they become as beloved by you and your friends as they are by mine. If you give this recipe a whirl, let me know how it goes! I’m always on the lookout for yummy burger adventures. Happy cooking!
