Description
These crispy-edged smash burgers are layered with sweet caramelized onions, melty cheddar cheese, and a zesty garlic herb aioli, all tucked into a soft brioche bun. They’re juicy, flavorful, and feel like gourmet comfort food made right at home.
Ingredients
- For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 medium sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
- For the Burgers:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (93% lean)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Leafy green lettuce (butter lettuce or romaine)
- For the Garlic Herb Aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–30 minutes until golden and soft. Add a splash of water if they begin to dry. Set aside.
- Make the Garlic Herb Aioli: Mix mayo, basil, parsley, rosemary, garlic, and black pepper in a bowl. Chill until ready to use.
- Form the Patties: Divide beef into 4 balls. Do not overwork. Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
- Cook the Burgers: Brush skillet with oil and add half the butter. Place a beef ball on the skillet and smash it into a ½-inch patty with jagged edges. Season with salt. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes. Flip, season again, and cook for 1–2 minutes more. Top with cheese and cover briefly to melt. Repeat with remaining patties.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast brioche buns lightly. Spread garlic herb aioli on both halves. Add lettuce to the bottom bun, then the burger, caramelized onions, and top bun.
- Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- Swap cheddar for Swiss, Gouda, or pepper jack.
- Add crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra layers.
- Mix sriracha or paprika into aioli for a spicy kick.
- Use arugula instead of lettuce for a peppery bite.
- Skip the bun for a low-carb burger bowl option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
