Print

Savory Blackstone Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions

blackstone smash burgers - featured image

A quick and easy smash burger recipe featuring juicy, crispy-edged patties cooked on a Blackstone griddle, topped with sweet caramelized onions for a perfect backyard BBQ treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil (for the griddle)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 soft burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese or American cheese (optional)
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Your favorite burger sauce or mayo

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat a stainless steel pan over medium-low heat and melt the butter. Add sliced onions, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat evenly. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes until onions are golden brown and jammy, about 20-25 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Preheat the Blackstone Griddle: Set the griddle to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Brush with oil to prevent sticking. Wait for the surface to become evenly hot.
  3. Form and Smash the Patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Roll loosely into balls. Place each ball on the hot griddle and immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to about ¼ inch thick. Season the exposed side with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges brown and crisp.
  4. Flip and Add Cheese: Use a thin spatula to flip patties carefully. Add cheese slices immediately if using. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through.
  5. Toast the Buns: Place buns cut side down on the griddle edge or in a skillet until lightly golden and crisp, about 2 minutes.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Spread your favorite sauce or mayo on the buns. Place patties on bottom buns, top with caramelized onions, add pickles if desired, then crown with top buns.

Notes

Keep the griddle hot to get a crispy crust. Do not press down on patties after flipping to retain juices. Caramelize onions low and slow to avoid burning. Leftover onions keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days and taste better after resting. Reheat burgers gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, Blackstone griddle, caramelized onions, BBQ, quick burger recipe, juicy burgers, crispy edges