Smash Burger Recipe

Heat a medium skillet over medium-low heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter. Add the thinly sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and deeply golden, about 20–25 minutes. If desired for quicker deeper color, stir in 1/2 tsp brown sugar after 10 minutes. Reduce heat if onions brown too quickly. Remove from pan and keep warm.

Whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp minced chipotle in adobo, 1 tsp lime juice, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika and 1/8 tsp salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust heat or acidity (add more chipotle or lime). Refrigerate until assembly.

Split the Hawaiian buns and spread softened butter on cut sides. Heat a large cast-iron griddle or heavy skillet over medium heat and add a little oil to coat. Place buns cut-side down and toast until golden and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Form and Smash

Divide 1 lb ground beef into four loosely packed 4-ounce balls (about 113 g each). Do not overwork the meat; handle gently and keep them chilled until ready to cook.

Preheat a cast-iron griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high to high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and swirl to coat.

Place one beef ball on the hot griddle. Using a sturdy spatula or a flat metal press (or place a piece of parchment and press with another heavy pan), smash the ball flat quickly to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season the exposed top surface immediately with a generous pinch of kosher salt and a little black pepper. Repeat for remaining balls, working in batches so the pan stays hot and not overcrowded.

Cook the smashed patties undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until deeply browned and crisp at the edges. Flip each patty and immediately place an American cheese slice on top so it melts while the second side cooks, about 30–60 seconds. Remove patties to a plate and keep warm.

Assemble the burgers: spread about 1 tablespoon chipotle mayo on the bottom bun. Place a handful (about 1/4 cup) shredded lettuce on the mayo. Add the hot cheeseburger patty on top of the lettuce, then a generous spoonful (about 2 tablespoons) of caramelized onions. Add 2 pickle slices if using. Spread a little chipotle mayo on the top bun and close the burger.

Serve immediately while patties are hot and edges are crisp. Provide napkins — smash burgers can be juicy and flavorful.