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Savory Smash Burger Sliders Recipe Easy Homemade with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce

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These savory smash burger sliders feature juicy patties with a perfect crust, sweet caramelized onions, and a tangy special sauce, making them a quick and satisfying meal perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 8 small slider buns (brioche or potato rolls recommended)
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon pickle relish (optional)
  • 8 slices cheddar cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil or neutral oil (canola or avocado oil) for cooking

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and stir occasionally. Cook slowly for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and sweet, adding water or reducing heat if onions start sticking or drying.
  2. Prepare the special sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon pickle relish (if using). Adjust seasoning and refrigerate to let flavors meld.
  3. Form the beef balls: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces or 56 grams each). Gently roll into loose balls without packing tightly.
  4. Heat the pan: Increase heat to medium-high and add a teaspoon of oil. Once hot, place 2-3 beef balls spaced apart in the pan.
  5. Smash and sear patties: Using a spatula or grill press, press each ball down firmly into a thin patty about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Hold pressure for 20-30 seconds to form a crust. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and brown.
  6. Flip and add cheese: Flip patties carefully, season with salt and pepper, place a slice of cheddar on each, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through but juicy.
  7. Toast the buns: Slice slider buns and toast face-down on a clean pan or griddle until golden and slightly crisp.
  8. Assemble sliders: Spread special sauce on bottom bun, add patty with melted cheese, top with caramelized onions, then crown with top bun.
  9. Serve immediately: Enjoy sliders fresh and hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to maintain a hot sear. Press patties quickly and firmly for signature crispy edges. Caramelize onions low and slow for best sweetness. Cheese can be melted under a lid for extra meltiness. Special sauce ties flavors together and can be stored refrigerated for up to a week. Leftover sliders keep well refrigerated for 2 days and reheat best in oven or skillet to avoid soggy buns.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, sliders, caramelized onions, special sauce, easy burger recipe, game night food, homemade sliders

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