The PERFECT Jalapeño Popper Smashburger

Ingredients

• 0.5 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio recommended)
• 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 jalapeños (finely diced, seeds removed for less heat)
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• 2 burger buns
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the finely diced jalapeños until well combined. Set aside.

2. 2

   Divide the ground beef into two equal portions and roll into loose balls. Do not overwork the meat.

3. 3

   Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them in the pan until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

4. 4

   Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash the balls down firmly into thin patties. Season generously with salt and pepper.

5. 5

   Cook for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip the patties.

6. 6

   Immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Allow the cheese to melt for about 1 minute.

7. 7

   To assemble, spread the jalapeño cream cheese mixture onto the bottom bun, top with the cheesy patty, and close with the top bun.

Notes

For extra texture, you can add crispy bacon bits into the cream cheese mixture. Ensure the pan is very hot before smashing to achieve the signature smashburger crust.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• burger
• comfort food
• smashburger
• spicy
• quick meal