Ultimate Smash Burgers Onions (Printable Recipe)

Juicy smash burgers with crisp edges, caramelized onions, tangy sauce, and melted cheese in golden buns.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Burgers

01 - 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - Salt, to taste
03 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
04 - 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
05 - 4 brioche or potato buns
06 - Dill pickle slices, for layering

→ Caramelized Onions

07 - 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
11 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
12 - Pinch of salt

→ Burger Sauce

13 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
14 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
15 - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
16 - 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
17 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
18 - Dash hot sauce (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat butter and oil on a griddle over medium heat. Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook 10–15 minutes until soft and golden. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and balsamic glaze, cooking 2 minutes more until reduced and jammy.
02 - Whisk mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, paprika, and hot sauce until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
03 - Divide cold beef into loose 3–4 oz balls. Handle gently without compressing.
04 - Preheat griddle to 450–500°F. Place beef balls on surface and smash flat with a heavy spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes until edges crisp.
05 - Flip patties, top each with a cheese slice, and cook 1 minute until cheese melts and patties remain juicy.
06 - Toast buns cut side down on the griddle until golden brown.
07 - Layer bottom buns with pickles, add patties with cheese, pile on caramelized onions, and spread sauce on top buns before closing.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Use a metal spatula and firm pressure to achieve crispy burger edges.
02 - Caramelized onions store well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
03 - Brioche or potato rolls both toast beautifully and provide a soft texture.