Smash burgers become irresistibly flavorful when cooked on a hot griddle, yielding crispy edges and juicy interiors. Sweet onions are slowly caramelized with Worcestershire and balsamic for a tangy depth, while a creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice adds brightness. Cheese is melted over the patties, and buns are toasted until golden. Layer pickles, cheese-laden burgers, and heaps of caramelized onions inside soft brioche or potato buns for a deeply satisfying result full of crunch, savor, and sweet-tangy richness—all ready in under an hour.

Smash burgers have always been my secret to getting restaurant-style flavor at home. The crispy edges contrast with juicy centers and, when piled with jammy caramelized onions, tangy sauce, and a hit of cool pickles, these burgers disappear faster than I can make them.

I first threw these down for a backyard birthday and now my crew requests them every summer. There is something instantly impressive about these—the fragrance alone pulls people into the kitchen.

Ingredients

Ground beef 80 20 blend: This blend gives burgers juicy flavor and crusty edges. Look for fresh meat with a deep red color and visible marbling
Yellow onion thinly sliced: This is the backbone of the caramelized topping. Pick onions that are firm with tight skin
Brioche or potato buns: Their soft crumb gets golden when toasted. Find ones that spring back when touched
American or cheddar cheese: Melts into the patty for an oozy bite. Try to buy cheese from the deli counter for best melt
Dill pickle slices: These add acid and crunch. Choose pickles that are chilled and snap when bitten
Butter and olive oil: This duo keeps onions from burning on the griddle and rounds out their flavor
Worcestershire sauce: The secret to savory depth in the onions. Buy a version that lists anchovies for the classic taste
Balsamic glaze: Brings a tang and sweetness to the onions. Go for a thick well-reduced glaze
Salt and black pepper: Basic but critical for pulling out the beef’s flavor
For the Sauce Mayonnaise: thick and creamy for body
Ketchup: a little sweetness for balance
Yellow mustard: a sharp tangy punch
Dill pickle juice: a salty pop
Paprika: for subtle warmth and color
Hot sauce (optional): for an extra kick

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