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Flavorful Smash Burger Sliders with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce

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These smash burger sliders feature thin, crispy-edged patties layered with sweet caramelized onions and a tangy special sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 8 to 10 mini slider buns (brioche or potato rolls preferred)
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 to 6 slices American or cheddar cheese (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles or sweet relish
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon ketchup
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of garlic powder
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or neutral cooking oil (can substitute with avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the special sauce: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon ketchup, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, a pinch each of garlic powder and black pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use.
  2. Caramelize the onions: Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally, cooking slowly until onions are soft and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
  3. Form and season the beef: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces or 55 g each). Roll each into a loose ball without packing tightly. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.
  4. Heat the skillet and oil: Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the skillet. Heat until just smoking.
  5. Smash and cook the patties: Place 2-3 beef balls in the skillet without crowding. Immediately press down firmly with a spatula to flatten to about ¼-inch thickness. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy. Flip carefully, add cheese slices if using, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
  6. Toast the slider buns: Butter the insides lightly and toast cut-side down in a pan or skillet until golden and slightly crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Assemble the sliders: Spread special sauce on each bun bottom, add a smashed patty, then a spoonful of caramelized onions. Cap with the top bun and press lightly.
  8. Serve immediately while hot and fresh.

Notes

Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet for best crust. Do not press patties again after initial smash to keep juiciness. Caramelize onions low and slow to avoid burning. Keep finished sliders warm in a low oven if cooking in batches. Cheese is optional but recommended for melty finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, sliders, caramelized onions, special sauce, easy burger recipe, homemade sliders, quick dinner

Find it online: https://grubella.com/flavorful-smash-burger-sliders-recipe-easy-homemade-with-caramelized-onions-and-special-sauce/