Description
This Irresistible Smash Burger recipe features juicy, crispy-edged beef patties topped with crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and sweet caramelized onions. Cooked on a flat-top grill, these flavorful burgers are seasoned with a smoky spice blend and finished with a tangy BBQ sauce for a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any burger lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Burger Patties and Seasoning
- 24 ounces ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 slices Cheddar cheese
Toppings
- 8 strips bacon
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 small onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Make the seasoning blend: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create a flavorful seasoning mix that will enhance the beef.
- Form the beef balls: Divide the ground beef into eight equal 3-ounce portions and gently roll each into balls without overworking the meat, preserving juiciness.
- Cook the bacon: Preheat a flat-top grill to medium heat. Fry the bacon strips until they are crispy, about 8-10 minutes, then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Caramelize the onions: Add butter to the grill and allow it to melt. Toss in the thinly sliced onions, season lightly with some of the spice blend, and cook while stirring occasionally until the onions are golden brown and sweet, about 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the grill for searing: Increase the grill temperature to high and brush the surface with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and ensure perfect searing.
- Season the beef balls: Sprinkle the remaining seasoning blend evenly over the beef balls, coating all sides for maximum flavor.
- Place and smash the patties: Position the seasoned beef balls on the hot grill and let them rest briefly. Using parchment paper and a pressing weight, smash each ball down to thin patties, focusing on creating crispy edges.
- Season and cook the patties: Lightly season the smashed patties again. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the edges are dark and lacy, indicating a crisp exterior.
- Flip and add cheese: Use a scraper to carefully flip each patty. Brush with BBQ sauce and immediately top with cheddar cheese slices. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional double stack: For extra indulgence, layer a second cheese-topped patty on each bottom patty as desired.
- Assemble and serve: Remove the patties from the grill. Build your smash burgers by piling crispy bacon and caramelized onions on toasted buns, then adding the smashed beef patties. Serve hot for an unforgettable burger experience.
Notes
- Use parchment paper when smashing the patties to prevent sticking and to create even, thin shapes.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially salt and spices.
- For a smokier flavor, consider smoked paprika or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the ground beef mixture.
- Butter caramelized onions can be made ahead and reheated before assembling burgers.
- Choose high-quality cheddar for best melting and flavor results.
