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Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burger served on a plate with toppings

Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers

These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are quick to prepare, featuring crispy-edged patties topped with sweet onions and fresh jalapeños for a spicy, juicy delight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Burgers
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1-2 pieces jalapeños, chopped remove seeds for less heat
  • 1 pound ground beef divided into 4 balls (about 4 oz each)
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • cheese slices (optional) slices of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack
  • 4 pieces burger buns toasted

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice one large onion thin, and chop one or two jalapeños small, removing seeds if you want less heat.
  2. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium high heat, add a little oil, and cook the onions until soft and light brown, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped jalapeño near the end and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, then set aside.
  4. Divide the ground beef into 4 even balls, about 4 ounces each. Do not overwork the meat; keep it loose. Season each ball with salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat the pan very hot, add a small splash of oil. Place the beef balls on the hot surface, then press each ball flat with a heavy spatula until very thin.
  2. Cook without moving for 2 minutes, until the edges brown and crisp.
  3. Flip the patties, add a slice of cheese if desired, and cook for 30 to 60 seconds more for medium doneness.
  4. Remove the patties from the pan.
  5. Toast the burger buns in the same pan for 15 to 30 seconds until golden.
Assembly
  1. Place the patty on the bun, top with the jalapeño-onion mix, add sauce or mayo, and finish with lettuce or pickles if desired.
  2. Serve right away so the edges stay crisp.

Notes

Use a hot pan for the best crust. Keep the beef loose when forming balls, press quickly and do not move patties until it's time to flip. Toast buns in the pan after cooking the patties to soak up flavor.