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Savory Blackstone Smash Burger with Beer-Braised Onions

Blackstone smash burger - featured image

A juicy, crispy-edged smash burger topped with sweet and tangy beer-braised caramelized onions, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup (120 ml) dark beer (such as stout or porter)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Cheese slices (optional, American or sharp cheddar)
  • 4 burger buns (potato buns or brioche recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter, softened
  • Pickles and condiments of choice (mustard, ketchup, mayo, special sauce)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beer-Braised Onions: Slice onions thinly. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally until softened and golden, about 10 minutes.
  2. Pour in ½ cup dark beer, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until onions are tender and beer mostly evaporated. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Set aside.
  3. Form the Beef Balls: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently roll each into a loose ball, avoiding overworking the meat.
  4. Preheat the Blackstone Griddle to medium-high (about 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the surface.
  5. Toast the Buns: Spread softened butter on cut sides of buns. Place butter-side down on griddle until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  6. Smash and Cook the Patties: Place each beef ball on the hot griddle. Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly to about ¼ inch thickness. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are dark brown and crispy.
  7. Flip patties carefully, season with salt and pepper, add cheese slices if using, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through.
  8. Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on toasted bun bottom, top with generous spoonfuls of beer-braised onions, add pickles or condiments if desired, then crown with top bun.
  9. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

Notes

Do not press patties after flipping to retain juiciness. Use 80/20 ground beef for best texture and flavor. Toast buns with butter on the griddle for added crunch. Beer-braised onions can be made ahead and taste better the next day. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For non-alcoholic version, substitute beer with beef or vegetable broth plus apple cider vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, Blackstone griddle, beer-braised onions, caramelized onions, burger recipe, quick dinner, cookout, crispy burger