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Savory Blackstone Smash Burgers Recipe with Easy Caramelized Onion Sauce

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A quick and easy smash burger recipe cooked on a Blackstone griddle featuring crispy edges, juicy centers, and a sweet-savory caramelized onion sauce that elevates the classic burger experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend recommended
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns, lightly toasted
  • Butter or oil for toasting buns
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: American or cheddar cheese slices, pickles, lettuce, tomato slices, mustard or mayo

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramelized Onion Sauce: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and sprinkle sugar evenly. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until onions are soft and deep golden brown (20-25 minutes). Add beef broth or water if onions stick or dry out.
  2. Finish the Onion Sauce: Stir in balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Form the Burger Balls: Gently mix ground beef without overworking. Divide into 4 equal portions and loosely roll into balls about 3 inches in diameter.
  4. Preheat the Blackstone Griddle: Heat to medium-high (about 375°F). Ensure griddle is hot before cooking.
  5. Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the insides of buns. Place butter-side down on griddle until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.
  6. Cook the Smash Burgers: Place beef balls spaced apart on griddle. Press each ball firmly down to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy. Flip carefully.
  7. Optional Cheese Melt: Place cheese slice on each patty after flipping. Cover loosely with lid or foil to melt cheese, about 1 minute.
  8. Finish Cooking: Cook another 1-2 minutes on second side. Burgers should be juicy inside with a good crust outside.
  9. Assemble and Serve: Place patties on toasted buns, spoon caramelized onion sauce over top, add optional toppings, and close sandwich. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for juicy burgers with a crispy crust. Press patties firmly and quickly, then cook without pressing again to retain juices. Caramelize onions low and slow to avoid burning. Toast buns lightly with butter for best texture. Can substitute gluten-free buns or plant-based patties for dietary needs. The caramelized onion sauce can be made ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, Blackstone griddle, caramelized onion sauce, easy burger recipe, quick dinner, backyard grilling