Mini Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 220  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

These Mini Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions feature juicy beef patties smashed until crisp, topped with deeply golden onions and melted cheese, all tucked into soft mini buns. A perfect quick, crowd-pleasing American-style burger recipe ideal for parties, game days, or easy dinners.

Ingredients
    For the Caramelized Onions
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp sugar (optional, helps browning)
    • For the Smash Burger Patties
  • 500 g ground beef (80/20 fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
    • For Assembly
  • 8 mini burger buns
  • 8 slices cheese (cheddar or American-style)
  • 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
    • Optional Toppings & Sauce
  • 0.5 cup lettuce shredded
  • 1 tomato thinly sliced
  • 0.25 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp mustard
Instructions
    Prepare the Onions
  1. 1
    Heat a wide skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add sliced onions and salt. Stir gently to coat evenly.
    2. Caramelize the Onions
  2. 2
    Cook the onions slowly for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow them to soften and turn golden brown. Add sugar if using. Reduce heat if they start browning too fast. Once deeply caramelized, remove from heat and set aside.
    3. Shape the Beef
  3. 3
    Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 60 g each). Gently roll into loose balls. Do not overwork the meat, as this keeps the burgers juicy.
    4. Heat the Cooking Surface
  4. 4
    Heat a cast-iron skillet or flat griddle on high heat until very hot. Lightly oil the surface.
    5. Smash the Burgers
  5. 5
    Place beef balls onto the hot surface. Immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press until thin. Season with salt and pepper.
    6. Cook and Flip
  6. 6
    Cook for 2 minutes until edges are crispy and browned. Flip once, add a slice of cheese, and cook another 1–2 minutes until melted and cooked through.
    7. Toast the Buns
  7. 7
    Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast on the skillet until lightly golden.
    8. Assemble the Burgers
  8. 8
    Spread sauce on the bun base. Add the smash patty, a generous spoon of caramelized onions, and optional toppings. Close with the top bun.
Note

Use high-fat beef for the best smash burger crust.

Do not press the burger after flipping; this keeps juices inside.

Caramelized onions can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated.

Swap cheese with mozzarella or gouda if preferred.

Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Keywords: mini burgers, smash burgers, quick dinner, party food, beef recipe
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/mini-smash-burgers-with-caramelized-onions/