Spicy Jalapeño Onion Smash Burgers with Garlic and Cheese Recipe

Benefits and Advantages of Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers

Jalapeno onion smash burgers are treasured for their ease of preparation and bold flavor profile, making them a standout choice for cooks of all skill levels. The recipe seamlessly blends the spicy heat from jalapenos with the sweet savoriness of caramelized onions, creating an exciting yet approachable taste without requiring complex techniques or ingredients. These burgers offer flexibility in protein choice, accommodating lean beef, higher-fat beef varieties, or plant-based alternatives to meet different dietary needs.

The smash cooking technique allows the patties to quickly develop a crispy crust while retaining juicy interiors, providing a satisfying textural contrast. Their quick cook time and minimal ingredient list make them perfect for casual meals or entertaining guests. Additionally, the versatility of this burger recipe makes it adaptable for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free options by selecting suitable buns or lettuce wraps. Overall, jalapeno onion smash burgers combine efficiency, flavor, and health-conscious choices in a uniquely delicious package.

Essential Ingredients for Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers

Creating authentic and flavorful jalapeno onion smash burgers requires the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds (about 680 grams) ground beef (80% lean recommended) or vegan ground substitute
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced (approximately 2 cups) for caramelized sweetness
• 1 large jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (about ½ cup; seeds removed for milder heat)
• 1 teaspoon canola oil or avocado oil for cooking
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt, divided
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 4 slices American cheese or pepper jack cheese (6 slices cut into pieces can substitute)
• 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted; gluten-free or whole grain options available
• Burger Sauce Ingredients:
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 ½ tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Each ingredient contributes distinct elements: jalapeños add bright heat, onions provide moisture and rich flavor, and the ground meat supplies the protein base for a hearty burger. The burger sauce ties flavors together with creamy tang and spice.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers

These jalapeno onion smash burgers can be modified to suit diverse dietary preferences and restrictions while retaining their essential flavors:

• Vegan Options: Substitute ground beef with plant-based grounds derived from soy, mushrooms, or legumes. Use vegan cheese and mayonnaise alternatives to maintain taste and texture.
• Gluten-Free Alternatives: Opt for gluten-free hamburger buns or crisp lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns to keep the burger gluten-free and reduce carbs.
• Lower-Calorie Choices: Select leaner ground meats such as ground turkey or chicken, or use cauliflower or portobello mushroom caps as burger bases.
• Dairy-Free Adjustments: Omit cheese or replace it with dairy-free cheese substitutes. Use vegan mayo in the burger sauce.

These substitutions ensure the bold profile of the original recipe remains intact while accommodating dietary needs.

How to Prepare the Perfect Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare ingredients: Finely chop jalapeños and thinly slice onions to ensure even flavor distribution.
2. Preheat cooking surface: Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat (450-500°F / 232-260°C) and lightly oil the surface with canola or avocado oil to prevent sticking.
3. Form the patties: Divide ground beef or vegan substitute into eight loose 3-ounce balls. Keep them chilled until ready to cook.
4. Cook onions and jalapeños: Arrange thinly sliced onions into eight small mounds spaced apart on the skillet. Top each mound with jalapeño slices and season with half the salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 30 seconds to 1 minute until onions begin to brown.
5. Smash the patties: Place a meatball on top of each onion-jalapeño mound. Cover with parchment paper and firmly press with a spatula to form approximately 4-inch diameter patties. Remove parchment and season tops with remaining salt and pepper.
6. Cook the burgers: Allow patties to cook without moving for 2 to 3 minutes until crispy edges form. Flip so onions and jalapeños are on top. Add cheese to four patties and cook another 1½ to 2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked to desired doneness.
7. Form burger stacks: Stack each cheese-topped patty with a plain patty to create double-stacked burgers.
8. Toast buns and assemble: Lightly toast buns on the skillet. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the prepared burger sauce on each bottom bun. Assemble burgers with patties, onions, and jalapeños, then top and serve immediately.

This straightforward approach ensures crispy, juicy jalapeno onion smash burgers bursting with flavor and perfect texture every time, whether for quick weeknight meals or entertaining guests.

Mastering Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers: Advanced Tips and Variations

To make exceptional jalapeno onion smash burgers, consider these advanced pointers that deepen flavor and improve texture:

• Choose freshly ground meat or high-quality vegan alternatives to maximize taste and juiciness.
• Incorporate smoky spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder alongside the jalapenos to add complexity and warmth.
• Use caramelized onions instead of raw for sweet, rich flavor layers that balance the heat of the peppers.
• Experiment with pepper choices: Swap jalapenos for milder options such as poblano peppers or add creamy avocado slices to mellow spice levels.
• Adjust patty thickness: Smash the patties thinner for maximum crispness or keep them thicker for a juicier bite.
• Cook on a cast-iron skillet for an ideal sear and crispy crust.

Applying these techniques keeps the recipe fresh, testable, and perfectly tailored to your flavor preferences. For detailed tips, see Tips for Making Smash Burgers.

How to Store Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers: Best Practices

Proper storage preserves the flavor and juiciness of your jalapeno onion smash burgers for later enjoyment:

• Refrigerate: Place cooked patties in airtight containers; they will keep fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They remain good for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm patties over medium heat in a skillet to maintain moisture and crispness, or microwave covered on a low power setting to avoid drying out.
• Buns: Avoid reheating buns with patties; toast buns freshly before serving to preserve texture and flavor.

Careful storage and reheating ensure these spicy, juicy smash burgers stay delicious for meals ahead.

Nutritional Value of Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers

Jalapeno onion smash burgers provide a well-rounded nutritional profile per serving, typically including:

Selecting lean protein and lighter buns or lettuce wraps can reduce calories and fat, making these burgers a satisfying yet health-conscious meal. Learn more about the Health Benefits of Jalapenos.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Jalapeno Onion Smash Burgers

Spicy Jalapeño Onion Smash Burgers with Garlic and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

🌶️ Bold and Spicy, these Jalapeño Onion Smash Burgers elevate any meal with their crispy, juicy deliciousness.
🍔 Quick and easy, they’re perfect for a spontaneous BBQ or a cozy dinner with friends.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 double-stacked burgers 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Burger Sauce:
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 ½ tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt

Smash Burgers:
1 ½ pounds (about 680 grams) ground beef (80% lean recommended)
1 teaspoon canola oil or avocado oil
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
1 large jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced (about ½ cup; seeds removed for less heat)
1 ¼ teaspoons salt, divided
¾ teaspoon black pepper, divided
4 slices American cheese or pepper jack cheese
4 hamburger buns, split and toasted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Mix all burger sauce ingredients together in a bowl, cover, and chill until ready to serve.
2. Divide the ground beef into eight loose 3-ounce (about 85 grams) balls and keep chilled.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat (450-500°F / 232-260°C). Drizzle oil evenly on the cooking surface.
4. Arrange thinly sliced onions in eight small mounds spaced apart on the skillet, then top each mound with jalapeno slices. Sprinkle each with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook undisturbed for 30 seconds to 1 minute until onions begin to brown.
5. Place a beef ball on each onion-jalapeno mound, cover with parchment paper, and press firmly with a spatula to smash into approximately 4-inch diameter patties. Remove the parchment, then season the top of the patties with the remaining ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
6. Cook patties undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until edges develop a crispy crust. Flip so that the onion and jalapeno mixture is on top. Place a slice of cheese on four of the patties and cook for an additional 1½ to 2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are well browned.
7. Stack each cheese-topped patty with a plain patty to create double stacks.
8. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the burger sauce on each toasted bottom bun, assemble the burger stacks on top, then place the top bun and serve immediately.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🧅 Use sweet yellow onions for richer caramelized flavor.
🌶️ Remove jalapeno seeds and membranes to reduce heat if desired.
🍞 Toasting buns lightly on the skillet adds texture and flavor.

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• N/A: 0 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling, Pan-Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: N/A

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 double-stacked burger
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 1100 mg
• Fat: 42 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg