Description
This Garlicky Onion Smash Burger combines juicy smashed beef patties with a rich, flavorful sautéed onion and garlic mixture, melted cheese, and toasted buns—a perfect quick and easy American classic burger cooked on the stovetop in a cast iron skillet for a deliciously crispy crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Seasonings
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
Onion and Garlic Mixture
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Cheese and Buns
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
Optional Condiments
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the skillet and beef: Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it is very hot. Meanwhile, gently divide the ground beef into four loose balls without overworking the meat to keep patties tender.
- Cook the onions and garlic: Add the vegetable oil to the hot pan and spread it evenly. Place the thinly sliced onions into the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they are slightly softened. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Push the onion and garlic mixture to the side of the pan to make room for the patties.
- Smash and sear the patties: Place the beef balls into the pan and immediately smash them flat with a sturdy spatula to create a crispy crust. Season the patties with half of the salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until deeply browned and crispy on the bottom.
- Flip and finish cooking: Flip the patties, top each with the onion and garlic mixture, then season with the remaining salt and pepper. Place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burgers are cooked through.
- Toast buns and assemble: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spread mayonnaise and mustard on the buns if using. Add the cheesy patties onto the buns, then serve immediately for a classic, rich smash burger experience.
Notes
- Ensure the pan is extremely hot before adding the beef to achieve the best crispy crust on your smash burgers.
- Do not press down on the burgers after flipping to avoid drying them out and losing juiciness.
- Using a cast iron skillet or griddle enhances the crust development and flavor of the patties.
- Optional condiments like mayonnaise and mustard add a creamy and tangy balance but can be omitted according to preference.
