Ingredients
- Ground beef (80/20 blend) 1 pound
- Jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced: 2
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: 4 ounces
- Burger buns: 4
- Butter, softened: 2 tablespoons
- Mayonnaise: 4 tablespoons
- Tomato slices: 4
- Lettuce leaves: 4
Instructions
- Step 1: Gently mix the ground beef with the minced jalapeños. Form into 4 equal-sized balls. Do not overwork the meat.
- Step 2: Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until smoking hot. Place the beef balls on the hot surface and immediately smash them down very thin using a burger press or a sturdy spatula.
- Step 3: Cook for 2-3 minutes, until a dark crust forms on the bottom. Flip the smashed burgers and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Step 4: Top each burger with the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted, about 30 seconds.
- Step 5: While the cheese is melting, lightly butter the cut sides of the burger buns and toast them on the skillet or griddle until golden brown.
- Step 6: Spread mayonnaise on both halves of the toasted buns. Assemble the burgers by placing lettuce, the cheesy burger patty, and tomato slices on the bottom bun. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- Store leftover patties separately from the buns and toppings in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to the skillet or covering in the microwave to prevent drying.
- Serve these spicy burgers with cool, creamy coleslaw or potato salad to balance the heat.
- For extra flavor, try searing the smashed patties with a drizzle of bacon fat or clarified butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American