Aged Cheddar Smash Burgers Onions (Print Version)

Smashed beef patties, sharp cheddar, and crunchy golden onions create an irresistible burger experience.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Crispy Onions

01 - 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
02 - 1 cup buttermilk
03 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 1/2 cup cornstarch
05 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - Vegetable oil, for frying

→ Smash Burgers

09 - 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
10 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 - 4 brioche or potato burger buns, split
13 - 4 slices aged cheddar cheese
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for toasting buns

→ Assembly

15 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
16 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
17 - 1 tablespoon ketchup
18 - Leaf lettuce, optional
19 - Sliced pickles, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Soak the thinly sliced onion in buttermilk for 10 minutes. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or deep skillet to 350°F. Dredge the onions in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, and fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain and set aside.
02 - In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ketchup until fully blended. Refrigerate until ready to use.
03 - Form ground beef into 4 loose balls without overworking the meat. Season each with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
04 - Melt unsalted butter in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Place buns cut side down and toast until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
05 - Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Place beef balls on the hot surface and use a heavy spatula or burger press to flatten to 1/2 inch thickness. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crisp and browned. Flip, top each with a slice of aged cheddar cheese, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
06 - Spread the prepared sauce over the bottom bun. Add the hot burger patty, a generous portion of crispy onions, and any desired lettuce or pickles. Cap with the remaining bun half and serve immediately.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses easy-to-find grocery store staples
  • Aged cheddar melts beautifully and adds big flavor
  • Golden crispy onions deliver crunch and a sweet-savory contrast
  • Ready in about forty five minutes start to finish
  • Relies on a hot griddle for restaurant quality crust
02 -
  • Rich in protein and loaded with textures from crisp onions to creamy sauce
  • Freezes well if you want to prep the onions or cooked patties ahead
  • Can be made gluten free using gluten free flour for onions and buns
03 -
  • Keep burger patties cold until they hit the hot skillet for maximum juicy texture
  • Crushing the beef into the skillet delivers maximum crust and flavor
  • Use a slotted spoon to lift onions from the oil and drain on paper for crispiness every time

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