Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe

If you’re craving a burger that hits all the right notes, look no further than this Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of juicy, crispy, savory, and cheesy that feels so indulgent yet totally achievable at home. Imagine that satisfying crunch of a perfectly smashed patty, molten cheddar cheese melting over it, sweet and buttery caramelized onions, and crispy bacon that adds just the right smoky punch. This recipe brings all those classic flavors together in a way that’s truly unforgettable and will have you reaching for seconds every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it simple, but don’t underestimate how each ingredient plays a crucial role in building those rich textures and layers of flavor. From the spices that elevate the beef to the crispy bacon, each must-have component brings something special to your Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe.

• 24 ounces ground beef (80/20): This fat ratio is key for juicy, flavorful patties that sear beautifully.
• 8 strips bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with melted cheddar.
• 4 small onions (thinly sliced): Slowly caramelized for that buttery sweetness and soft bite.
• 8 slices sliced Cheddar Cheese: Classic sharpness melts over the patty for cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every savory note in the beef and toppings.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Deepens the umami in the meat and onions.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Reinforces the onion flavor without overpowering.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Essential for rich, golden caramelized onions.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Used to grease the grill for that perfect sear.
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce: Adds a tangy, sweet contrast when brushed on the patty.

How to Make Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Seasoning

Start by combining salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. This simple blend delivers all the savory notes your Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe needs to pop with flavor.

Step 2: Shape the Beef

Divide your ground beef into eight 3-ounce balls. These small portions are perfect for smashing thin and getting that crispy edge everyone loves.

Step 3: Crisp the Bacon

Preheat your flat-top grill to medium and cook the bacon strips until they’re nice and crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Set them aside on a paper towel to drain excess fat and keep their perfect crunch.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

Drop butter onto the grill and let it melt before adding your thinly sliced onions. Toss them in butter and sprinkle about a quarter of your seasoning mix. Stir frequently for 8 to 10 minutes as they soften and turn golden, developing that sweet and rich flavor.

Step 5: Fire Up the Grill

Turn your heat to high and grease the grill with vegetable oil, preparing for the critical smash step that creates your burger’s signature crust.

Step 6: Season and Smash the Patties

Lightly sprinkle the top of your beef balls with seasoning, then place them seasoning side down on the hot surface. Using parchment paper and a heavy spatula or weight, press each ball down thin, focusing on spreading out those edges for maximum crispiness.

Step 7: Cook and Flip the Patties

After seasoning the exposed side, let the patty cook until the edges look lacey and golden brown – this takes about 2 minutes. Use a scraper to carefully lift and flip each burger.

Step 8: Sauce and Cheese Time

Brush the freshly flipped patties with BBQ sauce and immediately top each with a slice of cheddar. Cook for another two minutes to melt that glorious cheese.

Step 9: Assemble and Serve

You can enjoy single patties or stack two for a double burger experience. Remove from the grill and add a few crispy bacon strips and a generous helping of caramelized onions on your favorite buns. Serve right away for the best juicy, crunchy bites.

How to Serve Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe

Garnishes

Keep garnishes simple to let the rich flavors shine. A few crisp lettuce leaves add freshness, while sliced pickles bring a touch of tangy crunch that cuts through the richness. A little mayo or mustard on the buns can elevate the burger without overwhelming the star ingredients.

Side Dishes

Pair your Smash Burger with crispy fries, onion rings, or a light coleslaw for a classic combo that feels like a burger joint feast in your own kitchen. For a healthier twist, try roasted sweet potato wedges or a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve your Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe as mini sliders topped with toothpicks. Or create a burger platter with build-your-own toppings so everyone can personalize their delicious masterpiece. Adding an egg or swapping cheddar for pepper jack cheese are fun ways to mix things up too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe leftovers, store the patties, bacon, and onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep each component fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked burger patties and bacon by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. For best quality, consume within 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or refrigerated patties gently on a stovetop skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water and covering with a lid to keep them moist. Warm bacon in the oven or microwave for just a few seconds to avoid drying out. Reheat caramelized onions slowly in a pan to preserve their buttery softness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar’s sharpness pairs wonderfully with bacon and onions, feel free to try American, pepper jack, or even Swiss cheese for a new spin on your Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe.

What if I don’t have a flat-top grill?

No worries! A heavy skillet or cast iron pan works great too. Just heat it on medium-high and follow the same smash technique to get your burger crust perfectly crisped.

How do I get perfectly caramelized onions every time?

Patience is key. Cook them low and slow with butter, tossing often, until they are golden and sweet. Rushing the process can lead to burnt edges or undercooked onions.

Can I make these burgers gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead and confirm your BBQ sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients in the Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can try leaner ground beef or turkey, use less bacon, and swap butter for olive oil to lighten it up. Adding more veggies as toppings or sides also balances the indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Smash Burger with Bacon, Caramelized Onions, and Cheddar Recipe is truly a game-changer that you’re going to want to make again and again. It’s juicy, savory, cheesy, and packed with flavors that feel homemade but special enough to impress any burger lover. So go ahead, fire up your grill or skillet, and treat yourself to this irresistible classic—it might just become your new favorite comfort food!

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