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Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onion Jam

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Flavorful smash burgers with crispy edges topped with a homemade caramelized onion jam, perfect for a Labor Day cookout or any casual grill session.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 4 burger buns (brioche recommended)
  • Optional toppings: pickles, lettuce, tomato slices, mustard, mayo

Instructions

  1. Prepare the caramelized onion jam: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add 2 thinly sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and golden brown (about 15-20 minutes).
  2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Cook for another 5 minutes until jammy and thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Season the ground beef: Place 1 pound of ground beef in a mixing bowl. Lightly sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Handle the meat gently to avoid overmixing.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 5 minutes).
  5. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll loosely into balls without packing tightly.
  6. Place each ball onto the hot skillet, then immediately press down firmly with a metal spatula to flatten into a thin patty about 1/4 inch thick. Hold the press for 10-15 seconds to get a good sear.
  7. Cook the patties for 2-3 minutes until the edges are brown and crispy.
  8. Flip the patties carefully, top each with a slice of cheddar cheese, and cook for another 2 minutes until cheese melts and burgers are cooked through but still juicy.
  9. While patties cook, slice and lightly toast the burger buns on the griddle or in a toaster (about 2 minutes).
  10. Assemble the burgers: Spread a generous spoonful of caramelized onion jam on the bottom bun, add the cheesy patty, and top with optional extras like pickles or lettuce. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep the skillet very hot to achieve crispy edges. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. The caramelized onion jam tastes better the next day after flavors meld. For dairy-free onion jam, substitute butter with Greek yogurt. Use almond flour buns for a low-carb option. Toasting buns adds crunch and prevents sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, caramelized onion jam, Labor Day cookout, backyard burgers, crispy burgers, homemade onion jam

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/smash-burgers-with-caramelized-onion-jam-5-easy-steps-for-a-flavorful-labor-day-cookout/