Jalapeno Popper Smash Burger: The Ultimate Spicy Burger Recipe

Jalapeno Popper Smash Burger: Prepare to have your taste buds blown away! Imagine the creamy, cheesy, spicy goodness of a jalapeno popper, perfectly melded with the juicy, savory satisfaction of a smash burger. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of the smash burger are debated, its popularity exploded in the mid-2000s, offering a quicker, more flavorful alternative to traditional burgers. The jalapeno popper, a beloved appetizer, likely emerged in the latter half of the 20th century, quickly becoming a staple at parties and restaurants. Combining these two culinary powerhouses creates something truly special.

What makes the Jalapeno Popper Smash Burger so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures and tastes. The crisp, slightly charred edges of the smashed patty, the creamy, tangy cheese filling, the spicy kick of the jalapenos, all nestled between a soft, toasted bun. It’s an indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. People love this dish because it’s a fun, flavorful twist on a classic, offering a satisfying combination of comfort food and exciting spice. Get ready to elevate your burger game!

Ingredients:

• For the Jalapeño Poppers:
• 12 large jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Smash Burgers:
• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 4 brioche burger buns, split
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Burger Assembly:
• 4 slices pepper jack cheese
• Your favorite burger sauce (I like a spicy mayo!)

Preparing the Jalapeño Poppers:

1. Prepare the Jalapeños: Carefully halve each jalapeño lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. I recommend wearing gloves for this step, as jalapeño oils can irritate your skin. A small spoon works well for scraping out the insides.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Stuff the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, pressing it in firmly. Make sure you get a good amount of filling in each one!
4. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, place the beaten eggs. In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
5. Bread the Jalapeños: Dredge each stuffed jalapeño in the flour, making sure to coat all sides. Then, dip it in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
6. Chill the Breaded Jalapeños: Place the breaded jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the breading stay on during frying.

Frying the Jalapeño Poppers:

1. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer until it is about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
2. Fry the Jalapeño Poppers: Carefully add the jalapeño poppers to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the Jalapeño Poppers: Remove the fried jalapeño poppers from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Keep Warm (Optional): If you’re not serving them immediately, you can keep the jalapeño poppers warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C).

Preparing the Smash Burgers:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 8 ounces each). Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Don’t overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Prepare the Buns: Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the brioche burger buns.
3. Heat the Griddle or Skillet: Heat a large cast-iron griddle or skillet over medium-high heat until it is very hot. A hot surface is essential for getting a good sear on the smash burgers.
4. Toast the Buns: Place the buttered buns cut-side down on the hot griddle or skillet and toast until golden brown and crispy. Remove the buns from the griddle and set aside.
5. Smash the Burgers: Place one ball of ground beef on the hot griddle. Immediately use a sturdy metal spatula or burger press to smash the beef as thin as possible (about 1/4 inch thick). The thinner the burger, the more surface area you get for that delicious crust!
6. Season the Burgers: Immediately season the smashed burger with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
7. Cook the First Side: Cook the burger for 2-3 minutes, or until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom.
8. Scrape and Flip: Use the metal spatula to carefully scrape under the burger and flip it over.
9. Add Cheese: Immediately place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of the burger.
10. Cook the Second Side: Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked to your desired level of doneness. I recommend medium-rare to medium for the best flavor and juiciness.
11. Repeat: Repeat the smashing and cooking process with the remaining ground beef portions.

Assembling the Jalapeño Popper Smash Burgers:

1. Sauce the Buns: Spread your favorite burger sauce (I love a spicy mayo made with sriracha!) on both the top and bottom buns.
2. Assemble the Burger: Place one cheeseburger patty on the bottom bun.
3. Add Jalapeño Poppers: Top the burger patty with 3 fried jalapeño poppers.
4. Top it Off: Place the top bun on top of the jalapeño poppers.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the Jalapeño Popper Smash Burgers immediately and enjoy! These are best when the jalapeño poppers are still warm and crispy.

Tips for the Best Jalapeño Popper Smash Burgers:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the jalapeño poppers, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy poppers.
• Use a Hot Griddle: A hot griddle is crucial for getting a good sear on the smash burgers. Make sure the griddle is preheated before adding the ground beef.
• Smash Thin: The key to a great smash burger is to smash the beef as thin as possible. This creates more surface area for that delicious crust.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the burgers generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the beef.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. Some other great options include lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
• Make it a Meal: Serve these burgers with your favorite sides, such as french fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.

Variations:

• Spicy Mayo: For a spicier burger, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese filling or use a spicier burger sauce.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or provolone.
• Grilled Jalapeños: For a smoky flavor, grill the jalapeños before stuffing them.
• Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers: To make the jalapeño poppers healthier, you can air fry them instead of deep frying. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion:

This Jalapeno Popper Smash Burger isn’t just another burger; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to experience it. The creamy, cheesy, spicy filling combined with the perfectly smashed, crispy-edged patty is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a kick, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Why is this a must-try? Because it elevates the humble burger to a whole new level. We’re talking about a juicy, flavorful burger that’s packed with a creamy, spicy, cheesy center. The jalapenos add a delightful heat that’s balanced perfectly by the cream cheese and cheddar. The crispy smashed patty provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, gooey filling. It’s a complete sensory experience in every bite! Forget boring burgers; this is the burger you’ll be dreaming about.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the cheddar for pepper jack for an extra layer of spice. Or, if you’re not a fan of jalapenos, you could use poblano peppers for a milder flavor. For a vegetarian option, you could use a plant-based patty and stuff it with the jalapeno popper filling.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve your Jalapeno Popper Smash Burger on a toasted brioche bun for extra richness.
* Add a side of crispy sweet potato fries or onion rings for the perfect pairing.
* A dollop of cool sour cream or guacamole can help tame the heat, if needed.
* For a lighter option, serve it open-faced on a bed of lettuce.
* Don’t forget your favorite burger toppings! Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles all work wonderfully.

Variations to Explore:

* Bacon Bliss: Add crispy bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
* Spicy Ranch: Mix a little ranch dressing into the cream cheese for a tangy and cool contrast to the heat.
* Garlic Goodness: Add a clove of minced garlic to the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
* Mini Burgers: Make smaller patties and poppers for sliders, perfect for parties or appetizers.
* Deconstructed Burger: Serve the smashed patty and jalapeno popper filling separately, allowing everyone to customize their own burger.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’re going to love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to impress your friends and family, or simply treat yourself to a delicious and satisfying meal. The key to a great Jalapeno Popper Smash Burger is in the quality of the ingredients, so be sure to use fresh jalapenos and good quality cheese.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and get cooking! I can’t wait to hear what you think. Don’t forget to share your creations with me! Tag me in your photos on social media and let me know what variations you tried. I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to make this burger even better. Happy cooking!

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