Description

These juicy smash burgers with caramelized onion and cheddar are the perfect summer dinner. They cook in minutes, feed a crowd, and feature a crispy crust with a soft, juicy center.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs (900g) Ground Chuck Beef (80% lean / 20% fat)
2 large Yellow Onions (about 400g), sliced thinly
8 oz (225g) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded from a block
8–10 Potato or Brioche Burger Buns
2 tablespoons Butter
2 tablespoons High smoke point oil (avocado or canola)
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: Dill pickles, Iceberg lettuce, Sliced tomato, Mayo mixed with garlic powder and paprika

Instructions

Caramelize the onions: Slice onions into thin half-rings. Heat butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and jammy. Set aside.
Form the patties: Divide ground chuck into 8-10 equal balls (3-4 oz each). Handle gently to avoid toughening. Keep meat cold in the fridge until ready to cook.
Heat the pan: Place a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Add oil and let it get smoking hot.
Smash and cook: Place a meat ball in the hot pan. Immediately press down hard with a heavy spatula to create a thin patty (about 1/4 inch thick). Hold pressure for 10 seconds, then release. Cook undisturbed for 1.5-2 minutes until edges are brown and crispy.
Flip and add cheese: Flip the patty. Immediately top with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with foil or a lid for 30-60 seconds to melt the cheese.
Toast the buns: Toast buns cut-side down in the pan or on the grill until golden brown.
Assemble: Build the burger with the bottom bun, patty with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and optional toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep the meat cold for easier smashing. Ensure the pan is screaming hot to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy crust. Do not press the patty after the initial smash. Season with salt and pepper after smashing. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Caramelized onions can be made up to 2 days ahead.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 burger with toppin
Calories: 650
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 700
Fat: 38
Saturated Fat: 15
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 2
Protein: 35

Keywords: smash burgers, labor day dinner, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, ground chuck, summer grilling, easy burger recipe, crispy crust