Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger with Ranch Burst Recipe
The Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger with Ranch Burst is a juicy, flavor-packed burger that combines a crispy smashed beef patty with spicy jalapeños, creamy garlic-infused cream cheese, melted cheddar, and a cool ranch drizzle. Toasted buttery brioche buns, fresh lettuce, and red onion slices complete this indulgent American classic with a bold, spicy kick that’s balanced by creamy and fresh elements.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Burger Patties
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Spicy Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
Others
- ½ cup ranch dressing, chilled
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it is very hot to ensure a crispy crust when cooking the patties.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder and a pinch of salt until well combined. Set this cream cheese mixture aside as the spicy, creamy filling for the burgers.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly butter the brioche buns and toast them in the hot skillet until golden brown on both sides, then remove and set aside to keep warm.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide the ground beef into loose 3-ounce balls. Place each ball on the hot skillet and use a spatula to smash it thinly. Season each patty with salt and black pepper immediately after smashing.
- Cook to Perfection: Let the patties cook without moving for 2 to 3 minutes or until the edges are crispy and brown. Flip the patties and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and allow it to melt as the patties finish cooking.
- Finishing Touches: Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture on the toasted bottom buns. Layer the melted cheddar-topped patties, sliced jalapeños, fresh lettuce, thinly sliced red onions, and drizzle with chilled ranch dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Top with the bun tops and serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh textures in every bite.
Notes
- Smash patties only once to lock in juices and ensure a crispy crust.
- Use parchment paper between the spatula and beef to prevent sticking while smashing.
- For a smoky flavor, lightly roast jalapeños before adding to the burger.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches to maintain perfect crust.
- Avoid overloading toppings to keep burger balance intact.
- Serve buns immediately after toasting to prevent sogginess.
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