Gourmet Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions & Garlic Aioli
When you want to kick off the weekend with something indulgent yet chef-crafted, these Gourmet Smash Burgers with Caramelized Onions and Garlic Aioli are the answer. The patties sear into crispy-edged perfection, layered with melty cheese, sweet onions, and a garlicky aioli that ties everything together. This is a classic elevated—the kind of burger that belongs both on your grill and your Instagram feed.
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
1 ½ lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 brioche buns, buttered and toasted
4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
For the Caramelized Onions:
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
½ tsp salt
1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for deeper sweetness)
For the Garlic Aioli:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of salt and black pepper
Optional Toppings:
Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles, Crispy onions, Bacon strips
Instructions
1
Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, until soft and golden (about 25 minutes). Add brown sugar in the last 5 minutes for extra sweetness. Set aside.
2
Make the Garlic Aioli:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
3
Form and Smash the Patties:
Divide beef into 4-6 balls (about 6 oz each). Heat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high until very hot. Place beef balls on the surface and immediately smash flat with a metal spatula. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4
Sear and Melt:
Cook 2–3 minutes until edges are crisp, flip, top with cheese, and cook another minute until melted.
5
5. Assemble:
Spread garlic aioli on toasted buns. Layer with lettuce, tomato, burger patty, caramelized onions, and any extras. Top with the other bun and serve hot.
6
I like to thaw, proof and bake fresh Rhodes Texas Rolls for fresh buns for my burgers! It's worth the effort!
Tags:
#BurgerLovers#CaramelizedOnions#DinnerGoals#GarlicAioli#GourmetBurger#HomemadeBurger#SmashBurger#WeekendEatsChefBryanCookingwithchefbryan
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