Smash Burger Recipe with Onions That’s Crispy, Juicy & Loaded

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Smash Burger Recipe with Onions That’s Crispy, Juicy & Loaded

Introduction

Smash burger recipe with onions is more than just a trend—it’s a delicious, classic way to make burgers better, crispier, and more flavorful in minutes. Whether you’re replicating the famous Oklahoma onion burgers or crafting your own smashburger recipe with onions, this guide has everything you need.

We’ll show you how to get crispy edges, caramelized onions, juicy centers, and the ideal bun-to-burger ratio that burger joints would envy. You’ll also learn how to use the best onion for smash burgers to really take things to the next level.

Let’s dive into the sizzling world of onion smash burgers—a flavor explosion you can whip up at home.

1. What Is a Smash Burger Recipe with Onions?

This isn’t your usual backyard burger. A smash burger recipe with onions involves pressing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle to form a thin patty with crispy, caramelized edges. Add a layer of thinly sliced onions, and you’ve got yourself a burger with flavor, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.

2. Why Are Onion Smash Burgers So Popular?

There’s a reason you’ll find these at upscale burger joints and street food trucks alike. They deliver maximum flavor from minimal ingredients, and the cooking time is under 10 minutes. Plus, the sweet-savory onion flavor is just unbeatable.

3. The Legacy of Oklahoma Onion Burgers

Originating during the Great Depression in El Reno, Oklahoma, these burgers used loads of onions to stretch the meat supply. What started as a cost-saving trick became a signature American dish. Today, the Oklahoma onion burger is still beloved for its thin patty, onion-packed flavor, and crispy finish.

(📖 Read more from the Oklahoma Historical Society – external resource, DoFollow link)

4. Choosing the Best Onion for Smash Burgers

Place a small pile of onions on the hot skillet. Immediately press a beef ball on top using parchment and a heavy spatula. Smash hard and season with salt and pepper.

Here’s what works best:

Yellow Onions: Balanced and slightly sweet. Ideal for caramelizing.
White Onions: A bit sharper and more pungent.
Sweet Onions (e.g. Vidalia): Excellent for those who prefer extra sweetness.
Avoid Red Onions—they’re better raw and don’t caramelize well.

➡️ Our top pick: Yellow onions are the best onion for smash burgers thanks to their flavor and cook time.

5. What You’ll Need: Ingredients

For 4 burgers:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for fat and flavor)
1 large yellow onion, sliced paper-thin
4 soft burger buns (brioche or potato)
4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
Salt and black pepper
Butter or mayo (for bun toasting)
Optional: pickles, mustard, garlic aioli

6. The Tools That Make It Easy

Cast iron skillet or griddle
Metal spatula (heavy-duty)
Parchment paper (for pressing)
Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
Small bowl for forming meat balls

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7. Step-by-Step: Smashburger Recipe with Onions

Step 1: Prep Onions
Use a mandoline to slice onions super thin. Set aside.

2: Form Meat Balls
Divide beef into 4 loose balls. No need to shape tightly.

Step 3: Heat Skillet
Preheat over medium-high until hot. Lightly oil or butter the surface.

Butter buns and toast until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 5: Add Onions & Smash the Burger
Place a small pile of onions on the skillet. Immediately press a meatball on top. Smash firmly with spatula and parchment paper for 10 seconds. Season with salt and pepper.

6: Flip & Cheese
After 1.5 minutes, flip carefully. Add cheese immediately.

Step 7: Assemble
Place burger on bun. Add optional toppings, then serve.

8. Tips for the Perfect Crispy Smash

Only smash once, right after adding to the pan.
Don’t flip more than once.
Use high heat to get that crispy crust.
Avoid pressing down after flipping—keep the juices in!

9. Toasting Your Buns Like a Pro

Use soft potato or brioche buns, toast them in butter until the edges are golden and slightly crisp. It creates contrast and holds the juicy patty perfectly.

10. Cheese Choices That Melt Beautifully

American cheese: Ultimate melty texture.
Cheddar: Sharp, but doesn’t melt as evenly.
Swiss: Adds nuttiness, great if you’re adventurous.

Avoid pre-shredded cheeses—they don’t melt well due to added starches.

11. Best Toppings for an Onion Smash Burger

Less is more here.

Dill pickles
Mustard or garlic aioli
Jalapeños (for a kick)
Crispy bacon
Fried egg

But trust us—onions, cheese, and beef are all you really need.

12. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using lean beef (you’ll miss the flavor and moisture)
Over-flipping or over-smashing
Not slicing onions thin enough
Skipping bun toasting (it’s key!)

13. Nutrition Breakdown (Per Burger)

Calories: ~590
Protein: 26g
Fat: 38g
Carbs: 33g
Sugars: 4g
Fiber: 2g

(Values will vary based on bun, cheese, and add-ons)

14. Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:
Wrap burgers in foil or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Place in oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes wrapped in foil. Avoid microwaving.

15. Final Thoughts & Why This Recipe Works

This smash burger recipe with onions is easy, fast, and packed with flavor. It brings restaurant-quality burgers into your own kitchen using simple tools and affordable ingredients.

With the crispy edges of the beef, the sweet bite of thinly sliced onions, and melty cheese hugged in a toasted bun—this might just be your new favorite burger.