Description
These Labor Day smash burger sliders are crispy, juicy, and packed with savory caramelized onion flavor. They are a beginner-proof, foolproof recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimum fuss, perfect for backyard BBQs or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) 80/20 ground chuck
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8–10 soft slider buns (potato rolls or brioche)
- 8–10 slices American cheese
- Optional toppings: pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo, garlic aioli
Instructions
- Thinly slice onions into half-moons. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and ½ teaspoon salt, stirring to coat. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sugar. Continue cooking for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are dark brown, jammy, and sweet. Add a splash of water if sticking. Set aside.
- While onions cook, form ground beef into 8-10 small balls (about 2 ounces each). Do not overwork the meat. Keep cold until ready to cook. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Let it get hot, then add 1 tablespoon of butter. Wait until it foams and turns golden.
- Place a beef ball in the hot pan and immediately press down firmly with a smash tool or spatula until about ¼ inch thick. Season the top with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until a deep, dark crust forms. Do not press again after the initial smash.
- Flip the patties. Immediately place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook for 30-60 seconds until cheese is melted.
- Butter the cut sides of slider buns and toast them cut-side down in the pan for about 30 seconds until golden.
- Assemble sliders by spreading mayo or mustard on the bottom bun, adding the cheesy patty, piling on caramelized onions, and topping with the bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
Keep the meat cold until cooking to ensure it holds its shape. Ensure the pan is very hot before adding meat to prevent sticking and ensure a good crust. Do not press the patties after the initial smash to retain juices. For leftovers, store patties and onions separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Do not store assembled sliders as buns will get soggy.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 18
Keywords: smash burger, sliders, Labor Day recipes, easy burgers, caramelized onions, cast iron skillet, ground beef recipes, quick dinner