Few meals showcase the power of a Blackstone griddle better than onion smash burgers. The sizzling flat-top surface creates an incredible crust on the beef while the onions caramelize directly into the patties, producing juicy burgers packed with flavor.
This recipe is perfect for beginners because smash burgers cook quickly, require simple ingredients, and teach essential griddle techniques like heat management, smashing, and zone cooking. Once you master these burgers, you will instantly feel more confident cooking on your Blackstone.
Whether you are cooking for a backyard cookout, tailgating party, or family dinner, these onion smash burgers are guaranteed to become one of your favorite Blackstone recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 Large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 8 slices American cheese
- 4 4 burger buns
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- optional burger sauce
- optional pickles
Cooking Instructions
1
Preheat the Griddle
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat around 400°F to 450°F. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the cooking surface.
2
Prepare the Beef Balls
Divide the ground beef into 8 loosely packed balls about 4 ounces each. Avoid overpacking the meat to keep the burgers tender.
3
Toast the Buns
Butter the burger buns lightly and toast them on a cooler section of the griddle until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
4
Add Onions and Beef
Place a small pile of sliced onions onto the griddle and immediately place a beef ball on top of the onions.
5
Smash the Burgers
Using a burger press or sturdy spatula, firmly smash the burger into the onions until very thin. Hold pressure for about 10 seconds to create a crispy crust.
6
Season and Cook
Season the patties with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until crispy edges form.
7
Flip and Add Cheese
Scrape underneath the patties with a sharp spatula and flip carefully. Immediately top with American cheese and cook another 1–2 minutes.
8
Build the Burgers
Stack two patties per burger onto toasted buns. Add burger sauce, pickles, or your favorite toppings.
Recommended Blackstone Equipment
Heavy Duty Burger Press
Helps create thin crispy smash burgers with consistent pressure and even cooking.
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Infrared Thermometer
Allows accurate griddle temperature monitoring for perfect burger crusts.
Blackstone Griddle Tool Kit
A beginner-friendly accessory kit with spatulas, scraper, and squeeze bottles.
View on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why are my smash burgers sticking to the griddle?
Usually the griddle is either not hot enough or not properly seasoned. A well-seasoned Blackstone and a properly preheated surface help prevent sticking.
What is the best beef for smash burgers?
80/20 ground chuck is the most popular option because the higher fat content creates crispy edges and juicy burgers.
Can I use frozen burger patties?
Fresh beef works much better for smash burgers because it presses thinner and cooks more evenly.
Why do smash burgers taste better on a Blackstone?
The flat-top griddle creates maximum surface contact with the beef, producing a flavorful crust through caramelization.
What cheese works best for onion smash burgers?
American cheese melts beautifully and creates the classic diner-style burger texture.
