Spicy Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers

Craving a burger with bold flavor, crispy edges, and a fiery kick? These Spicy Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers deliver everything you want in a crave-worthy handheld. Featuring juicy smash burger patties seared to perfection, topped with caramelized onions, fresh jalapeños, melty cheese, and a zesty sauce, this recipe will instantly become your go-to for burger nights.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spicy & Savory – Jalapeños and seasoned onions take the heat and flavor up a notch.
• Smash Burger Style – Crispy, caramelized edges with juicy centers.
• Fast & Satisfying – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Toppings – Add more spice, cheese, or crunch based on your cravings.
• Restaurant Quality at Home – Save a trip and make something better in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Burger Patties:

• 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juicy burgers)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp oil or butter (for searing)

For the Jalapeño-Onion Mix:

• 1 tbsp oil or butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
• ½ tsp sugar (helps with caramelization)
• Pinch of salt

For the Spicy Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayo
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp hot sauce (or to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For Assembly:

• 4 brioche burger buns, lightly toasted
• 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• Lettuce or shredded cabbage (optional crunch)
• Pickles (optional, for tang)
• Tomato slices (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Cast iron skillet or flat griddle
• Spatula (metal preferred for smash technique)
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Foil or lid (to help melt cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Spicy Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together mayo, ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Taste and adjust heat level.
3. Cover and chill until ready to use.

Step 2: Caramelize the Jalapeño-Onion Mix

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add jalapeños, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
4. Cook another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and tender.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Form and Season the Patties

1. Divide ground beef into 4 equal balls (don’t overwork the meat).
2. Season each ball with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Keep chilled until ready to cook.

Step 4: Smash & Sear the Burgers

1. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high until very hot.
2. Add oil or butter, then place 2 beef balls on the surface.
3. Immediately smash each ball flat with a spatula (use parchment paper and a second spatula if needed).
4. Sear for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and brown.
5. Flip, then top each patty with cheese.
6. Cover with foil or lid and cook 1 more minute to melt the cheese.
7. Repeat with remaining patties.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. While burgers cook, lightly toast the buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread spicy sauce on both sides of the bun.
2. Add lettuce or cabbage to the bottom bun.
3. Place the cheesy smash burger patty on top.
4. Spoon over a generous amount of jalapeño-onion mix.
5. Add tomato slices or pickles if using.
6. Top with the other bun half and press gently.

Tips for the Best Smash Burgers

• Hot Pan = Crispy Edges – Preheat the skillet well before adding the patties.
• Don’t Flip Too Soon – Let the bottom crust form before flipping.
• Double Up – For extra indulgence, stack two thin patties per burger.
• Control the Heat – Use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds for a milder bite.
• Use Parchment for Smash – Place a square between the meat and spatula to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

• Crispy Fries or Onion Rings – Classic pairings for a burger night.
• Corn on the Cob – Grilled and seasoned with lime and chili powder.
• Sweet Potato Wedges – A slightly sweet contrast to the spicy burger.
• Iced Lemonade or Sparkling Lime Water – Refreshing drinks to balance the heat.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep sauces and toppings separate for best texture when reheating.

Reheating:

• Skillet: Reheat burgers over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 1 minute, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these burgers less spicy?
   Yes! Use fewer jalapeños, remove the seeds, and reduce or omit the hot sauce in the spicy mayo.
2. What’s the best type of beef to use?
   An 80/20 ground beef mix offers the perfect fat content for juicy, flavorful burgers.
3. Can I grill the patties instead of smashing?
   Sure! Just shape into thinner patties and cook over medium-high grill heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
   With reduced jalapeño and no hot sauce, it can easily be adjusted for younger eaters.
5. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
   You can prep the sauce and jalapeño-onion mix ahead, then cook the patties fresh for best texture.

Final Thoughts
These Spicy Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are everything you love in a burger—crispy edges, melty cheese, and that irresistible balance of heat and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe brings serious burger-shop energy to your kitchen.

Try it out, stack it high, and enjoy the spicy crunch of jalapeños with every juicy bite. Don’t forget to leave a review and share your burger masterpiece online—I’d love to see your creations!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 540 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fat: 35g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 650mg

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