There’s nothing better than Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers—juicy, crispy-edged burgers packed with spicy jalapeños, caramelized onions, and melty cheese. These burgers are quick, flavorful, and perfect for your next cookout or weeknight indulgence!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Why You’ll Love These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
- Crispy & Juicy – Smashed patties create the perfect caramelized crust.
- Bold & Spicy – Jalapeños add a delicious kick of heat.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes, great for weeknights.
- Customizable – Add extra toppings for your perfect burger!
Ingredients for Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Jalapeño-Onion Topping:
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns work best)
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 4 tablespoons burger sauce (see below)
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
For the Burger Sauce (Optional):
- ¼ cup mayo
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice or vinegar
Tools You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula (preferably metal for smashing)
- Mixing bowl
How to Make Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Toppings
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and jalapeños, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Burger Patties
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions, rolling each into a loose ball.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
Step 3: Smash & Cook the Burgers
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
- Place a beef ball in the skillet and smash it down firmly using a spatula (pressing for 10 seconds).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy, then flip.
- Add a slice of cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until melted.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
- Toast the burger buns lightly.
- Spread burger sauce on both bun halves.
- Layer with lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
- Place the cheesy smash patty on top and add the jalapeño-onion mixture.
- Top with the bun lid and serve immediately!
Serving Suggestions
- With Crispy Fries – Classic side for a juicy burger.
- With a Cold Beer or Soda – Complements the spice perfectly.
- With a Side Salad – Lightens up the meal.
Tips for the Best Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
- Use a Hot Skillet – Ensures a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Smash Immediately – Press down right after placing the patty in the skillet.
- For Extra Heat – Leave jalapeño seeds or add hot sauce.
- For Extra Juiciness – Use 80/20 ground beef and don’t overcook.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes per side.
- Freeze: Freeze raw patties for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use turkey or plant-based meat?
Yes! Adjust cooking time as needed for leaner meats.
Q2: Can I cook these on a grill?
Absolutely! Just press the patties firmly with a spatula on the hot grill grates.
Q3: What’s the best cheese for this burger?
Cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda are excellent choices.
A Spicy, Juicy, and Irresistible Burger!
These Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers are packed with bold flavors, crispy edges, and gooey cheese—guaranteed to be a hit! Whether for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, this burger is a must-try.
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us—we love seeing your creations!
📌 Save this recipe for later and follow us for more burger inspiration!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Burger)
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
Enjoy every crispy, cheesy, and spicy bite of these Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers! 🍔🔥🧀✨
Print
Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
There’s nothing better than Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers—juicy, crispy-edged burgers packed with spicy jalapeños, caramelized onions, and melty cheese. These burgers are quick, flavorful, and perfect for your next cookout or weeknight indulgence!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Jalapeño-Onion Topping:
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns work best)
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 4 tablespoons burger sauce (see below)
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
For the Burger Sauce (Optional):
- ¼ cup mayo
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice or vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Toppings
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and jalapeños, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Burger Patties
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions, rolling each into a loose ball.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
Step 3: Smash & Cook the Burgers
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
- Place a beef ball in the skillet and smash it down firmly using a spatula (pressing for 10 seconds).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy, then flip.
- Add a slice of cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until melted.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
- Toast the burger buns lightly.
- Spread burger sauce on both bun halves.
- Layer with lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
- Place the cheesy smash patty on top and add the jalapeño-onion mixture.
- Top with the bun lid and serve immediately!
Notes
- Use a Hot Skillet – Ensures a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Smash Immediately – Press down right after placing the patty in the skillet.
- For Extra Heat – Leave jalapeño seeds or add hot sauce.
- For Extra Juiciness – Use 80/20 ground beef and don’t overcook.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American