Hello, I’m Sam. Since retiring, I’ve learned to love recipes that turn simple ingredients into something special, without creating a pile of dishes. This Caramelized Onion Smashburger Skillet fits right into that comfort zone: it’s rich, satisfying, and comes together in one pan. If you enjoy easy dinners that feel restaurant-quality but don’t take all night, this is one you’ll make again and again.
Imagine everything you love about a diner-style smashburger, the crisp-edged beef, melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, all cooked together in a single skillet. No grill required. It’s quick, comforting, and full of that signature smoky sweetness from the onions. I like to serve it over toasted buns, mashed potatoes, or even spooned onto rice for a cozy bowl-style dinner.
If you’ve tried my Smash Burger Tacos or the hearty Beef and Noodles Recipe, this skillet will feel familiar, simple steps, big flavor, and easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp Dijon or burger sauce (optional for finishing)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
- Serve with: toasted buns, mashed potatoes, or rice
Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for about 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and soft. The key is patience, low and slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness. Remove and set aside.
2. Smash the Beef
In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Divide the ground beef into 4 portions. Place each portion into the pan and press it down firmly with a spatula to flatten. Let the patties sear for 2–3 minutes until crisp on the edges, then flip.
3. Add Flavor and Combine
Season the patties with black pepper and garlic powder. Spoon the caramelized onions back into the skillet and drizzle Worcestershire sauce over everything. Layer a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the skillet briefly to melt.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Caramelized Onion Smashburger Skillet hot with your favorite sides. I like to scoop it into toasted burger buns or serve it open-faced over mashed potatoes. The rich onions blend beautifully with the beef, creating that classic “smashburger” flavor without the griddle fuss.
Tips from Sam’s Kitchen
- Take Your Time with Onions: True caramelization takes at least 10 minutes, don’t rush it.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar adds sharpness, while American gives that classic diner melt.
- Make It a Bowl: Spoon over rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftover Idea: Reheat in a skillet and serve on top of a Homemade Sandwich Bread slice for a hearty lunch.
Why This Recipe Works
This Caramelized Onion Smashburger Skillet takes all the appeal of a classic burger and makes it even easier. The onions bring a mellow sweetness, the beef delivers crisp edges, and the melted cheese ties everything together. It’s a no-stress, high-reward dinner that’s easy to fit into your weekly routine.
If you enjoy skillet meals like Beef Protein Bowl, this recipe deserves a spot on your list. It’s practical cooking with a comforting twist, exactly the kind of dish that makes dinner feel cozy again.
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Caramelized Onion Smashburger Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A cozy one-pan dinner that brings all the flavor of a classic burger—juicy beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese—together in one skillet.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
4 slices cheddar or American cheese
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 tbsp Dijon or burger sauce (optional)
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Serve with toasted buns, rice, or mashed potatoes
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and soft. Remove and set aside.
2. Increase heat to medium-high. Divide beef into 4 portions and press each one into the skillet to flatten. Sear for 2–3 minutes until crisp, then flip.
3. Season with pepper and garlic powder. Add onions back into the skillet and drizzle with Worcestershire sauce.
4. Top each patty with cheese and cover briefly to melt.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides or toasted buns.
Notes
Caramelize onions slowly for best flavor.
Use cheddar or American cheese for classic melt.
Add Dijon or burger sauce for a richer finish.
Serve leftovers over rice or toast for lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American Comfort