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Flavorful Smashed Smoked Burger Recipe with Easy Caramelized Onions

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A juicy, smoky smashed burger with crispy edges topped with sweet caramelized onions, perfect for backyard grills and quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend), fresh and coarsely ground
  • Salt and pepper, to season
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 4 soft burger buns, lightly toasted
  • Pickles, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Mustard or mayo for spreading (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the caramelized onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. After 10 minutes, reduce heat to low and continue cooking slowly, stirring every few minutes until onions turn golden brown and sweet (around 20 more minutes). Watch carefully in the last 5 minutes so they don’t burn. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Form the burger patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Handle the meat lightly—don’t pack it too tight. Form each portion into a loose ball, then set aside on a plate.
  3. Preheat your smoker or grill to about 375°F (190°C). If using a smoker, add your favorite wood chips (hickory or applewood work great) for extra smoky aroma.
  4. Cook the patties: Place one ball of beef onto the hot cooking surface. Using your spatula, press down firmly to smash it thin—about ¼ inch (6 mm) thickness. Season immediately with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes until edges look crispy and browned.
  5. Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip the patty. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through. Repeat with remaining patties.
  6. Toast the buns cut-side down on the grill or in a pan until golden and slightly crisp.
  7. Assemble your burger: Spread mustard or mayo on the buns if desired. Layer the bottom bun with the cheesy smashed patty, a generous scoop of caramelized onions, and pickles. Top with the other bun half.
  8. Serve immediately for the best crispy texture and smoky flavor.

Notes

Use freshly ground black pepper and a quality beef blend like Certified Angus Beef for best flavor. For caramelized onions, cook low and slow to avoid burning. Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes before smoking to prevent flare-ups. Do not overwork the beef and keep patties about ¼ inch thick for crispy edges without drying out. Cheese is optional but recommended. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed burger, smoked burger, caramelized onions, backyard grill, easy burger recipe, quick dinner, smoky burger

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