First, let’s talk about the star of the show – the Blackstone griddle. This versatile cooking tool is a must-have for any burger lover. With its large cooking surface and even heat distribution, it ensures that every patty gets that perfect sear and caramelization. Whether you’re cooking for a small gathering or a big backyard barbecue, the Blackstone griddle is up to the task.
Now, let’s move on to the patties themselves. Smash burgers are all about maximizing flavor and texture. To achieve this, start with high-quality ground beef. Look for a blend that has a good ratio of lean meat to fat. This will ensure that your patties are juicy and flavorful.
Next, it’s time to season the patties. Keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with your favorite burger seasoning blend. Whatever you choose, make sure to season both sides of the patty generously. This will help to enhance the flavors as they cook on the griddle.
When it comes to cooking the patties, the technique is key. Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the patties onto the griddle and immediately press them down with a spatula. The goal here is to create a thin, crispy crust on the outside of the patty while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
As the patties cook, you’ll notice the edges start to brown and crisp up. This is the perfect time to add the onions. Thinly slice a sweet onion and scatter the slices around the patties on the griddle. The heat will caramelize the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding a delicious flavor to the burgers.
Continue cooking the patties and onions until the desired level of doneness is reached. If you like your burgers medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F. For medium, aim for 140°F, and for well-done, aim for 160°F. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.
Once the patties are cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble your smash burgers. Start with a toasted bun, add a generous smear of your favorite sauce, and then layer on the patty, onions, and any other toppings you desire. The combination of the crispy patty, sweet caramelized onions, and flavorful sauce will create a burger experience like no other.
So, next time you’re craving a juicy burger, give smash burgers with onions on a Blackstone griddle a try. With their incredible flavor and texture, they’re sure to become a favorite in your burger repertoire. Happy griddling!
When it comes to making a smash burger, the key is in the technique. The ball of ground beef is placed onto a hot griddle or skillet and then smashed down with a spatula. This flattens the patty and creates maximum surface area for the burger to come into contact with the heat. As the patty cooks, the natural fats and juices are released, resulting in a sizzling and aromatic experience.
One of the advantages of cooking a smash burger is the speed at which it can be prepared. Unlike traditional burgers that require shaping and careful handling, a smash burger can be made quickly and efficiently. The thin patty cooks rapidly, allowing for a shorter cooking time overall. This is especially appealing for those who are short on time or looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
Another aspect that sets smash burgers apart is the texture. The process of smashing the patty creates a thin and crispy exterior, while the interior remains juicy and tender. This contrast in textures adds to the overall enjoyment of the burger, providing a delightful combination of crunch and succulence in each bite.
When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. From classic choices like cheese, lettuce, and tomato, to more adventurous options like caramelized onions, bacon, or even a fried egg, the versatility of the smash burger allows for a wide range of flavor combinations. The simplicity of the patty itself allows the toppings to shine, making each bite a unique and flavorful experience.
Overall, the popularity of smash burgers can be attributed to their simplicity, speed, and incredible taste. Whether you’re a fan of classic toppings or prefer to experiment with new flavors, the smash burger is a versatile and delicious option that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning burger lover.
Preparing the Onions
Before we start cooking the burgers, let’s prepare the onions. Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory element to the burgers, complementing the beef perfectly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by thinly slicing a large onion. You can use a yellow onion, red onion, or even a sweet onion, depending on your preference.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown. This process can take around 20-30 minutes.
- Once the onions are caramelized to your liking, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
Now that our onions are ready, let’s move on to the star of the show – the smash burgers!
Burgers are a classic American dish that never fails to satisfy. They are versatile, customizable, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, not all burgers are created equal. The secret to a truly delicious burger lies in the details, and one of those crucial details is the caramelized onions.
Caramelized onions are a game-changer when it comes to burgers. They add a depth of flavor that takes the dish to a whole new level. The slow cooking process transforms the raw onions into soft, sweet, and savory strands of deliciousness. The natural sugars in the onions caramelize, creating a rich and complex taste that pairs perfectly with the juicy beef patty.
To prepare the onions, start by thinly slicing a large onion. The type of onion you choose is up to you, but yellow onions, red onions, or even sweet onions work well. The thin slices allow for even cooking and ensure that the onions will melt into the burger, rather than overpowering it.
Next, heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. The choice between oil or butter depends on your preference. Oil will give the onions a slightly lighter flavor, while butter will add a touch of richness. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the sliced onions to the skillet.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown. This process can take some time, usually around 20-30 minutes. The low and slow cooking allows the natural sugars in the onions to caramelize, intensifying their flavor and creating that irresistible sweetness.
Once the onions have reached your desired level of caramelization, remove them from the heat and set them aside. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool, so be sure to take them off the heat just before they reach the perfect golden brown color.
Now that our onions are ready, we can move on to the star of the show – the smash burgers! The caramelized onions will be the perfect topping for these juicy patties, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication to the final dish. So let’s get cooking and create a burger experience that will leave everyone craving for more.
Cooking the Smash Burgers
For this recipe, we’ll be using a Blackstone griddle to cook our smash burgers. The flat surface and even heat distribution of the griddle make it the perfect tool for achieving those delicious caramelized crusts. Here’s how to cook the burgers:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes. You want the surface to be hot enough to create a sear on the burgers.
- Divide your ground beef into small, golf ball-sized portions. Season each portion with salt and pepper.
- Place a portion of ground beef onto the hot griddle and immediately use a spatula to smash it down. Press firmly to create a thin patty.
- Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to brown and crisp up.
- Flip the patty and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Repeat the process with the remaining portions of ground beef.
Once your smash burgers are cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble them with the caramelized onions and any other toppings you desire.
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking the perfect smash burgers, let’s talk about assembling them. The key to a great burger is the combination of flavors and textures, so let your creativity shine when choosing your toppings.
Start by toasting your burger buns. You can do this on the griddle itself by placing the buns cut-side down for a minute or two until they are lightly browned. Alternatively, you can use a toaster or a regular grill.
Next, it’s time to add the caramelized onions. These sweet and savory onions will take your smash burgers to the next level. To make caramelized onions, thinly slice a large onion and cook it in a pan with a bit of oil or butter over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the onions are soft and golden brown, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
Now, let’s move on to the condiments. Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with different sauces and spreads. You can also add some pickles, lettuce, and tomato slices for freshness and crunch.
Cheese is an essential component of a burger, and you have a wide variety to choose from. American cheese is a popular option due to its creamy and melty texture, but cheddar, Swiss, or even blue cheese can add a unique twist to your burger.
Finally, don’t forget about the sides. French fries are a classic choice, but you can also serve your smash burgers with onion rings, coleslaw, or a side salad for a lighter option. And of course, a cold beverage like a milkshake or an ice-cold beer is the perfect accompaniment to a delicious burger.
With these tips and tricks, you are ready to impress your friends and family with your homemade smash burgers. So fire up that griddle, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate burger experience. Happy cooking!
Serving and Enjoying the Smash Burgers
Now that your smash burgers are ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are a few tips for assembling and serving your burgers:
- Start by toasting your burger buns on the griddle. This adds a nice crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy.
- Spread your favorite condiments, such as mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard, on the bottom bun.
- Place a patty on top of the condiments, followed by a generous portion of the caramelized onions.
- Add any additional toppings you like, such as cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles.
- Finish off with the top bun and give it a gentle press to hold everything together.
Now, take a moment to admire your creation before taking a big, juicy bite. The combination of the crispy patty, the sweet and savory onions, and the soft bun is a match made in burger heaven.
Pair your smash burgers with some crispy fries, a side salad, or your favorite beverage, and you’re in for a delicious meal.
When it comes to enjoying your smash burger, there are a few techniques that can enhance your eating experience. One popular method is to take a small bite from the side of the burger, allowing the flavors to mingle in your mouth. This technique allows you to savor each component of the burger individually before experiencing the explosion of flavors when they all come together.
Another technique is to cut the burger in half, revealing the layers of ingredients inside. This not only makes it easier to handle and eat, but it also gives you a glimpse of the deliciousness that awaits you.
As you take your first bite, be prepared for the satisfying crunch of the toasted bun, followed by the juicy and flavorful patty. The combination of the condiments, caramelized onions, and additional toppings adds a burst of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.
Remember to take your time and savor each bite. Allow yourself to fully enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade smash burger. The crispy fries, side salad, or your chosen beverage will complement the flavors of the burger, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re enjoying your smash burger at a backyard barbecue, a casual dinner with friends, or a solo indulgence, the experience of assembling, serving, and savoring this classic dish is one to be cherished. So, gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and get ready to create memories around the irresistible allure of the smash burger.