2023 Smackdown Burger Recipe
Make 2023 Smackdown Burger Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties & Seasoning
Onions & Caramelized Onion Jam
Sauce
Toppings & Cheese
Buns & Finishing
Optional Crunch
Method
Burger Patties & Seasoning
- 1
Form patties
Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 10 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a loose ball, then press into patties about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Do not overwork the meat — handle gently.
- 2
- 3
Cook patties
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 4–5 minutes). Add no additional oil if using a well-seasoned pan; if the pan is dry, add a teaspoon neutral oil. Place patties in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Add one slice of cheddar to each patty, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid or large metal bowl for 30–45 seconds to melt the cheese. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for well-done; adjust time for preferred doneness.
Onions & Caramelized Onion Jam
- 4
Slice onions
Halve and thinly slice the yellow onion into 1/8-inch strips.
- 5
- 6
Make jam
When onions are deep golden (about 18–22 minutes total), stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Cook another 1–2 minutes until glossy, then add 2 tablespoons water to loosen and simmer 30 seconds. Remove from heat and keep warm. Reserve a spoonful for immediate topping and refrigerate leftovers.
Sauce
- 7
Mix sauce
In a small bowl combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce (if using), and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning to taste. Chill until assembly.
Toppings & Cheese
- 8
- 9
Prep toppings
Wash and dry the butter lettuce leaves and set aside. Lay out bread and butter pickles and have crushed potato chips ready if using for crunch.
Buns & Finishing
- 10
Toast buns
Butter the cut sides of the potato buns with the reserved 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Toast buttered sides in a skillet or on the griddle over medium heat until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes.
- 11
Assemble burger
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the sauce on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce, then set the cheeseburger patty on top. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the caramelized onion jam over the cheese, add two slices of crispy bacon (or break to fit), then add 3 bread-and-butter pickle slices. If you want crunch, sprinkle about 1/4 cup crushed potato chips over the pickles. Spread another 1 tablespoon of sauce on the top bun and cap the burger. Serve immediately.