Spicy Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burgers (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Burger Sauce

01 - 3 tbsp mayonnaise
02 - 1 1/2 tbsp ketchup
03 - 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
04 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
05 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/4 tsp kosher salt

→ Smash Burgers

07 - 1 1/2 lbs high-quality 80% lean ground beef
08 - 1 tsp canola oil
09 - 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
10 - 1 large jalapeño chile, thinly sliced
11 - 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt, divided
12 - 3/4 tsp black pepper, divided
13 - 4 slices American cheese
14 - 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted

# Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
02 - Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add the canola oil. Add the sliced onions and jalapeños, season with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and the jalapeños are softened, about 10-15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
03 - Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a loose ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until ready to cook.
04 - Wipe the skillet clean and return it to high heat until it begins to smoke slightly. Place a few beef balls into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, firmly press down each ball to flatten it into a thin patty. Season the patties with a pinch of the remaining kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until the edges are crispy and the center is cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty to melt.
05 - Spread a generous amount of the prepared burger sauce on the cut sides of the toasted hamburger buns. Place a cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun, top with a spoonful of the caramelized onion and jalapeño mixture, add any additional desired toppings, cover with the top bun, and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing.
02 - To achieve the best crust on the burgers, ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the beef.
03 - These burgers pair well with classic sides like fries or a simple salad.

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