Smash Burgers with Pickled Onions

In the realm of comfort food, few culinary creations can rival the satisfaction that comes from sinking your teeth into a perfectly smashed burger. The combination of a juicy beef patty, crispy edges, and a host of zesty toppings creates a symphony of flavors that can elevate any meal. Among these toppings, tangy pickled onions stand out, adding a burst of acidity and crunch that complements the richness of the meat. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue, enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, or simply indulging in a personal craving, these burgers promise to deliver an unforgettable taste experience.

Smash Burgers with Pickled Onions

Discover the secret to crafting the ultimate smashed burger topped with tangy pickled onions. In this article, you'll learn how to achieve that perfect crispy crust while keeping the patty juicy, thanks to the smash burger technique. We'll guide you through selecting high-quality ingredients, making homemade pickled onions, and assembling a mouthwatering burger. Perfect for any occasion, these burgers promise to impress with every bite! Embrace the joy of cooking and elevate your burger game today.

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20)

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 burger buns (preferably brioche)

4 slices of cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)

1 cup of pickled onions (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup lettuce leaves

1 tomato, sliced

Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise (to taste)

For Homemade Pickled Onions:

1 large red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

1 tbsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black peppercorns

1 tsp whole coriander seeds (optional)

Instructions

Make the Pickled Onions:

- In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, and coriander seeds. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves.

- Place the sliced red onion in a clean glass jar and pour the vinegar mixture over the onions. Make sure they're fully submerged.

- Seal the jar and let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, refrigerate for a few hours or overnight.

Prepare the Grill or Skillet:

- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. If using outdoor grilling, preheat the grill to high.

Shape the Patties:

- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Do not overwork the meat; gently form each portion into a ball without packing it too tightly.

Cook the Burgers:

- Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet or grill and season generously with salt and pepper.

- Using a spatula, press down firmly on each ball to flatten, creating a smashed burger. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a deep crust forms.

- Flip the burgers and place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked to your desired doneness.

Toast the Buns:

- While the burgers are cooking, split the buns and toast them on the grill or in a separate pan until golden brown. This step adds a nice crunch and helps prevent sogginess.

Assemble the Smash Burgers:

- Start by spreading your choice of ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise on the bottom bun.

- Add a layer of lettuce and a slice of tomato.

- Place the cheeseburger on top, followed by a generous helping of pickled onions.

- Finish with the top half of the bun.

Serve:

- Serve the smash burgers immediately with your favorite side (like fries or potato chips) and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4