Social Smash Burger Recipe

Peel and thinly slice the yellow onion into half-moons about 1/8-inch thick.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a wide skillet over medium-low heat until butter is melted.

Add the sliced onions and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir to coat and spread the onions into an even layer.

Cook low and slow, stirring every 4–6 minutes so they brown evenly. After about 15 minutes, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar to help with caramelization. Continue cooking another 10–15 minutes until deep golden-brown and jammy. If they start sticking, add a tablespoon of water and scrape the fond.

Remove from heat and set aside in a bowl. Keep warm or reheat briefly before assembly.

Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard and 1 teaspoon pickle juice in a small bowl.

Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning or pickle juice for brightness.

Cover and chill in refrigerator while you cook the burgers so flavors meld.

Portion and season

Divide 1 lb ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Gently roll each into loose balls; do not overwork. Season one side of each ball with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper (reserve most seasoning for after smashing).

Preheat and oil the griddle

Heat a heavy cast-iron griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (a drop of water should sizzle vigorously). Add 2 tablespoons neutral oil and spread to coat.

Smash the patties

Place two beef balls onto the hot surface (work in two batches). Using a sturdy spatula or a heavy metal press, firmly press each ball down until it's about 1/4-inch thick. Hold pressure for 10–15 seconds to maintain the thin shape. Season the exposed meat with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cook and flip

Cook the patties undisturbed 2–3 minutes until deeply browned and edges are crisp. Use the spatula to scrape and loosen the patty, flip, then immediately place a slice of cheddar on each patty so it melts while the second side cooks, about 45–60 seconds.

Toast buns

While the second side finishes, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Halve the pretzel buns and toast cut sides in the butter until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Assemble

Spread about 1 tablespoon of smash sauce on the bottom half of each toasted pretzel bun. Place one cheesy patty on the sauce, add a small spoonful of caramelized onions, and two pickle slices. Top with the second cheesy patty, more smash sauce on the top bun as desired, then crown with the top half of the pretzel bun.

Serve

Serve the Social Smash Burgers immediately while hot and juicy. Enjoy with fries or a side salad.