Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers : The Ultimate Burger Experience

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the perfect burger, especially when it’s topped with caramelized onions. Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers take the classic burger experience to the next level by adding a rich, savory sweetness that complements the crispy, juicy burger patties. With their unique flavor profile and indulgent textures, these burgers are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home.

Forget the boring old cheeseburger—this recipe brings together the best of ground beef, perfectly cooked onions, and the satisfying crunch of a smashed patty. You can even enjoy them without the bun, making them a low-carb, keto-friendly option.

Looking for more burger inspiration? Check out our Best Burger Recipes for a variety of delicious options!

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What Makes Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers So Special?

Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers stand out because of the balance between savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. Here’s why they’re so special:

• Flavor-packed caramelized onions: The slow-cooked onions add a depth of flavor to the burgers that takes them from good to extraordinary. Their natural sweetness, combined with a slightly crispy texture, creates an irresistible topping.
• Smash patty technique: By smashing the patties on the grill or in a pan, you get a crispy, caramelized exterior while maintaining a juicy, tender interior. This technique gives each burger a crispy crust and a melt-in-your-mouth center.
• Burger customization: Whether you prefer your burger without a bun, or you want to load it up with extra toppings like cheese or bacon, Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers are incredibly versatile.
• Quick and easy: Despite how gourmet they sound, these burgers are simple to make and cook quickly, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat.

With this recipe, you’ll have a burger that’s bursting with flavor and texture, giving you a new way to enjoy a classic favorite.

Ingredients for Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers

To make Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. This recipe uses fresh ground beef, but you can customize it with additional toppings or even swap out the beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer.

For the Smash Burgers:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean for juicy burgers)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Optional: cheese slices (American, cheddar, or Swiss work best)

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth of flavor)

For Serving (optional):

• Burger buns (or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version)
• Pickles or other toppings like tomato, lettuce, or avocado (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to create a deliciously rich, savory burger experience with all the right textures and flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers

Making Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers is easy, and it doesn’t take much time to prepare. Here’s how to make this flavorful burger from scratch:

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

The key to great Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers is the onions. Start by caramelizing the onions before cooking the patties to give them time to develop that sweet, rich flavor.

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1. Heat the pan: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Cook the onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan, stirring to coat them in the butter and oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally to ensure the onions cook evenly.
3. Caramelize the onions: Let the onions cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The low heat will allow the onions to release their natural sugars and turn golden brown.
4. Optional sweetness: If you want to add a little extra sweetness, stir in brown sugar and let it cook for a few more minutes until the onions are perfectly caramelized. Finish by deglazing the pan with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor depth.
5. Set aside: Once the onions are caramelized and golden brown, remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Smash Patties

Next, prepare the smash patties, which will be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

1. Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll each portion into a ball. Do not overwork the meat—this will keep the patties tender.
2. Heat the skillet: Use the same skillet you cooked the onions in, or use a griddle. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Smash the patties: Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls onto the skillet and immediately smash them down with a spatula. Press hard to create a thin patty. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the beef hits the pan.
4. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the patties. Let the burgers cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the edges are crispy and browned.
5. Flip and cook: Flip the patties and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Add a slice of cheese (if desired) during the last minute of cooking to melt it.

Step 3: Assemble the Burgers

Now that the patties and onions are ready, it’s time to assemble the Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers.

1. Toast the buns (optional): If using burger buns, lightly toast them in a skillet or oven for a few minutes until golden and crispy. For a low-carb option, skip the buns and use lettuce wraps instead.
2. Assemble the burger: Place the cooked smash patty onto the bottom half of the bun or the lettuce wrap. Top it with a generous scoop of caramelized onions.
3. Add toppings: If desired, add other toppings like pickles, tomato slices, or lettuce to complete the burger.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers immediately, and enjoy the juicy, flavorful combination of crispy burger patties, sweet caramelized onions, and your choice of toppings.

How to Perfectly Caramelize Onions for Your Smash Burgers

Caramelizing onions is an art that requires patience. Here’s a quick guide to help you get it just right:

• Cook slowly: Caramelizing onions requires low, slow cooking to break down the sugars and bring out the natural sweetness. If the heat is too high, the onions will burn before they have a chance to caramelize.
• Stir occasionally: Keep an eye on the onions and stir them every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
• Add sugar for extra sweetness: For extra caramelization, stir in a bit of brown sugar after the onions start turning golden. This will enhance their sweetness and deepen the flavor.
• Deglaze with balsamic vinegar: Once the onions are fully caramelized, deglaze the pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar to add complexity to the flavor and help lift the delicious bits stuck to the pan.

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Tips for Making the Best Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers

• Use high-fat ground beef: For juicy, flavorful burgers, use ground beef with a fat content of at least 80%. This ensures the patties stay moist while cooking.
• Smash the patties hard: The key to the crispy crust is smashing the patties thinly on the grill or in the pan. This allows the burger to form that crunchy, flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Don’t overcook the burgers: Smash burgers cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking can lead to dry burgers, while undercooking can leave them raw inside.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings—add cheese, bacon, or even a fried egg for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions for Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers

• Fries or chips: Pair your burgers with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a classic side dish.
• Salad: Serve the burgers with a simple green salad or coleslaw to balance out the richness of the patties.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles or a pickle relish are the perfect accompaniment to the sweet and savory flavors of the caramelized onions.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Smash Burgers

Storage:
Store leftover Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat the patties and onions in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If you’re reheating the burgers, you can place them on a toasted bun with fresh toppings for a quick meal.

Why Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers Are Perfect for Summer and Special Occasions

Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers are perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or special occasions like birthday parties and family gatherings. The combination of crispy, juicy beef patties and sweet caramelized onions is a crowd-pleaser, and the smash technique ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Smash Burgers

• Not smashing the patties enough: Smash the patties down hard enough to create a crispy crust but don’t overdo it. You want the patties thin enough to get the crispy edges without making them too small.
• Overcooking the patties: Smash burgers cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Aim for a juicy center with a golden, crispy edge.
• Using lean ground beef: For the juiciest, most flavorful burgers, don’t go too lean. 80% lean beef is ideal.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Smash Burgers and Burger Recipes

Can I use ground turkey or chicken for smash burgers?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef, though the texture may be a little different. Be sure to season well to enhance the flavor.

Can I make these burgers in advance?
You can form the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. However, the onions are best made fresh.

Conclusion + Call to Action

Caramelized Onion Smash Burgers offer a delicious twist on traditional burgers. With their crispy edges, juicy centers, and sweet caramelized onions, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe today and take your burger game to the next level!

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