1-Step 1: Heat the Skillet Start by heating a large cast iron skillet or flat top to medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon avocado oil, then toss in 3 medium sweet onions sliced thinly and 2-3 large jalapeno peppers sliced thinly. Once they begin to color, lower the heat to medium-low and let them cook for 15-20 minutes until the onions turn deep golden brown. This caramelizing step is what gives your burgers that extra depth.

2-Step 2: Prepare the Patties While the onions and jalapenos are cooking, gently mix 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt and 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika into 1 ½ pounds grass-fed ground beef or turkey. Form the mixture into 6 patties, and if you’re using cheese, add the chunks from 6 slices of pepper jack cheese inside each one. Set them aside so they stay chilled and ready.

3-Step 3: Make the Chipotle Mayo In a bowl, combine ⅔ cup avocado oil mayo, 1-2 tablespoons chopped chipotles in adobo sauce, and a pinch of salt. Stir it up and adjust the chipotle for your preferred spice level. This sauce will tie everything together with a smoky twist.

4-Step 4: Cook the Burgers Divide the caramelized onions and jalapenos into 6 piles on the cooking surface. Place a patty on each pile and smash it flat with a sturdy spatula or burger press. If your pan is small, cook in batches of 3. After 2-3 minutes, when the edges brown, flip the burgers along with the onions and jalapenos, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully done.

5-Step 5: Assemble and Serve Toast the buns on the cooking surface if you like, then assemble your burgers with the patties, onions, jalapenos, and a dollop of chipotle mayo. Add your favorite toppings and serve right away for the best flavor. For more burger-inspired ideas, try our classic meatballs recipe to expand your ground beef repertoire.