Name: Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger with Ranch Burst Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 4 slices cheddar cheese; 3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced; ½ cup ranch dressing, chilled; 4 brioche buns; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 lettuce leaves; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

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Introduction

Juicy smash burger patties topped with spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and a cooling ranch drizzle, this Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger with Ranch Burst brings the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers into a hearty, indulgent meal. It’s a perfect mix of spicy, savory, and creamy textures that will satisfy any burger craving.

This close-up image shows a tall burger with several layers, all on a white plate against a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is a light golden toasted bun with some herbs and sauce spread on it. On top sits a thick, juicy grilled beef patty covered with melted yellow cheddar cheese that drips over the sides. Above the cheese-covered patty are green pickled jalapeño slices and crispy brown bacon strips, sprinkled with small green herb pieces. There is a bright red tomato slice layered just under a thick spread of creamy white sauce with visible herb bits. The top is a glossy golden sesame seed bun with a shiny, slightly toasted surface. In the blurred background, there is a jar of red sauce and two green jalapeños. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 slices cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup ranch dressing, chilled
4 brioche buns
2 tablespoons butter
4 lettuce leaves
1 small red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Lightly butter the brioche buns and toast them in the skillet until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Divide the ground beef into loose 3-ounce balls. Place each ball onto the hot skillet and smash them thinly using a spatula. Season each patty with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Cook the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a crispy, browned crust. Add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt.
Step 6: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer the melted cheddar-topped patties, sliced jalapeños, lettuce leaves, and red onion slices on top. Drizzle with chilled ranch dressing.
Step 7: Place the top halves of the buns on the assembled burgers and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Smash patties only once to lock in their juices and ensure a flavorful crust.
Use parchment paper between the spatula and beef to prevent sticking during smashing.
For a smoky twist, lightly roast jalapeños before adding them to the burger.
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra heat.
Substitute brioche buns with pretzel buns for added chewiness and savoriness.

Storage

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm the patties gently in a skillet to maintain crispness and flavor. The cream cheese mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 1 day or frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before using.

How to Serve

A close-up of a juicy burger on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. The bottom layer is a soft, slightly toasted white bun with specks of green herbs around it. Above that, there is a spicy orange sauce with chopped herbs. Next is a thick, grilled beef patty covered with melted cheddar cheese that looks glossy and golden. On top of the cheese are slices of fresh green jalapeños and crispy brown bacon pieces. Above the bacon, there is a bright red tomato slice and a thick layer of creamy white sauce with green herb flecks. The top is a shiny, golden-brown sesame seed bun. Nearby, there are whole jalapeños and a jar of sauce in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, simply remove the seeds from the jalapeños or substitute them with milder peppers to reduce the heat level.

Can I grill the burgers instead of using a skillet?

Yes, grilling is possible but using a cast-iron skillet or griddle yields the best smash crust for maximum flavor and texture.