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Savory Blackstone Griddle Smash Burgers with Easy Caramelized Onion Jam Recipe

blackstone griddle smash burgers - featured image

Juicy, crispy smash burgers cooked on a Blackstone griddle paired with a rich, savory caramelized onion jam that elevates the flavor to a memorable level. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Cheddar cheese slices (optional)
  • Soft burger buns, lightly toasted (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • Butter (for toasting buns)
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional toppings: fresh lettuce leaves, tomato slices, dill pickles, spicy mustard or mayo

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramelized Onion Jam: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and turn a deep golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, then add fresh thyme leaves if using. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until thick and jammy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Form the Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently roll each portion into a ball without overworking the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
  3. Preheat the Blackstone Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Let it get really hot for a crispy crust.
  4. Cook the Smash Burgers: Place a beef ball on the hot griddle and immediately smash down with a spatula or burger press until very thin (about ¼ inch). Let it cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges turn crispy and brown. Flip carefully, add a slice of cheddar cheese if desired, and cook for another 2 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through. Repeat with remaining patties.
  5. Toast the Buns: Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast them on the griddle for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous layer of caramelized onion jam on the bottom bun. Add the smash burger patty with melted cheddar, then top with lettuce, tomato, pickles, or your favorite condiments. Cap with the toasted top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly ground black pepper and real butter for best flavor. Keep the griddle dry and very hot for a perfect crust. Slow caramelization of onions is key to avoid bitterness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Avoid overworking the beef to keep patties tender. Do not press patties after flipping to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, Blackstone griddle, caramelized onion jam, easy burger recipe, quick dinner, crispy burgers, homemade onion jam