Smash Burgers with Pickled Onions

In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a perfectly cooked burger. The Sizzlin' Smash Burger, with its juicy texture and zesty pickled onions, offers a gourmet spin on this classic favorite. This article delves into the art of creating smash burgers from scratch, highlighting the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for achieving a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, these smash burgers are sure to impress.

Experience the ultimate delight of homemade Sizzlin' Smash Burgers topped with zesty pickled onions. This guide walks you through creating these savory burgers from scratch, highlighting the importance of using high-quality ingredients and mastering the cooking technique that ensures a juicy interior and crispy exterior. Perfect for any occasion, these gourmet burgers are easily customizable and sure to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting this delicious comfort food at home!

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Ingredients

For the Smash Burgers:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)

4 burger buns (brioche or sesame)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Pickled Onions:

1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup water

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)

1 bay leaf (optional)

For the Burger Toppings:

Leafy lettuce

Sliced tomatoes

Ketchup and mustard (to taste)

Instructions

Pickle the Onions:

- In a small saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns (if using), and bay leaf (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.

- Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before pouring the mixture over the sliced red onions in a bowl or jar.

- Let the onions soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the fridge for a stronger flavor.

Prepare the Smash Burgers:

- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat. Allow it to get hot.

- While the skillet is heating, divide the ground beef into four equal portions (4 oz each). Gently form them into balls, without overworking the meat.

Cook the Burgers:

- Once the skillet is hot, add vegetable oil and carefully place the beef balls in the pan, leaving some space between them.

- Using a flat spatula, smash each ball down firmly and evenly until it flattens to about 1/2 inch thick. Season the tops with salt and pepper.

- Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes without flipping until the edges start to brown and the juices seep from the top.

Add Cheese:

- Flip the burgers and immediately place a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Toast the Buns:

- While the burgers finish, split the burger buns and toast them face down in the same skillet until golden and crisp.

Assemble the Burgers:

- Start by placing a leaf of lettuce on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cheesy smash burger on top, followed by a slice of tomato.

- Drain the pickled onions from the brine and pile them on top. Finish with ketchup and mustard as desired, and cap it with the top half of the bun.

Enjoy:

- Serve immediately while hot and juicy, accompanied by fries or your favorite side!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hour (including pickle time) | 4 servings