Description
This Double-Decker Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger combines crispy smashed beef patties with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño popper filling and a zesty ranch drizzle. Perfectly toasted buns sandwich layers of melty cheddar, smoky bacon, and fresh jalapeños for a spicy, flavorful burger experience that comes together quickly in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or oil for cooking
Jalapeño Popper Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 4 jalapeños, sliced and deseeded (optional for less heat)
Burger Assembly
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeño Popper Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, crumbled bacon, and sliced jalapeños to create the creamy, spicy filling that will be spread on the buns.
- Form Beef Balls: Divide the ground beef into eight equal portions and loosely shape each into a ball to prepare for smashing on the griddle.
- Heat the Cooking Surface: Place a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter or oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy crust on the patties.
- Smash the Patties: Place two beef balls onto the hot griddle and immediately smash them flat using a sturdy spatula. Season the patties generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook First Side: Let the patties cook for 2-3 minutes without disturbing, allowing the edges to crisp up beautifully before flipping them over.
- Cheese and Cook Second Side: Flip the patties, then immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly.
- Assemble the Burgers: On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous layer of the jalapeño popper filling. Stack two cheesy smash patties on top of this filling.
- Add Optional Toppings: Layer on lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if desired to add freshness and crunch.
- Drizzle Ranch: Spoon ranch dressing over the top beef patty for a cool, tangy finish.
- Complete and Serve: Place the top bun over the assembled burger and serve immediately while hot and juicy. Repeat the process for all four burgers.
Notes
- For less heat, remove seeds and membranes from jalapeños before slicing.
- Use a sturdy spatula or burger press to smash patties thin for maximum crispiness.
- Toast buns to add texture and help prevent sogginess from the filling and ranch.
- Feel free to swap bacon for turkey bacon or omit for a lighter version.
- The recipe yields 4 double-decker burgers, perfect for a family meal or small gathering.
