Description
These cheesy jalapeño popper smash burgers combine the crispy, savory crunch of a classic popper with the juicy, beefy satisfaction of a smash burger. It’s a quick, spicy, and creamy weeknight dinner or game day staple.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 chuck and sirloin blend)
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or 1 cup shredded)
- Pickled jalapeño slices (drained and patted dry)
- 4 large burger buns (brioche or potato rolls)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt
Instructions
- Divide ground beef into four equal portions (approx. 4 ounces each) and roll into loose balls. Keep cold until ready to cook.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until very hot. Do not add oil.
- Place one beef ball on the hot skillet. Cover with parchment paper and smash firmly with a burger smasher until about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with remaining balls.
- Season the top of each patty generously with salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty, followed by 3-4 slices of drained pickled jalapeños. Cook for 2-3 minutes until edges brown.
- Use a thin metal spatula to scrape the crispy crust off the pan and flip the burgers. Press gently to adhere cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and second side is browned.
- While burgers cook, cut buns in half and brush cut sides with melted butter. Toast in the skillet or a separate pan until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers on toasted buns and serve immediately.
Notes
Keep ingredients cold until cooking to maintain patty structure. Ensure jalapeños are thoroughly drained and patted dry to prevent sogginess. Do not move the patty too soon after smashing to allow the crust to form and release naturally. For less heat, remove seeds from jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger per serving
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: smash burger, jalapeño popper, cheesy burgers, quick dinner, game day food, spicy burgers, cast iron recipes, weeknight meals