Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger with Ranch Burst Recipe
A juicy, flavorful burger featuring smashed beef patties topped with a creamy garlic-infused jalapeño popper spread, melted cheddar, fresh jalapeños, and crisp veggies, all dressed with a cool ranch burst on buttery toasted brioche buns.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Patties
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Jalapeño Popper Spread
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Toppings & Extras
- 3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing, chilled
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tbsp 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, ensuring a good sear on the burgers.
- Mix Jalapeño Popper Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Set this creamy mixture aside for topping later.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the brioche buns. Place them butter-side down on the hot skillet and toast until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Form and Season Patties: Divide the ground beef into loose 3-ounce balls. Place each ball on the hot skillet and use a spatula to smash them thin. Season the patties with salt and black pepper immediately after smashing.
- Cook the Patties: Cook the smashed patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the edges are crispy and the meat is cooked through. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese to melt.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly onto the toasted brioche buns. Layer on the cheesy patties, sliced jalapeños, lettuce leaves, thinly sliced red onions, and drizzle generously with chilled ranch dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Place the top bun on each burger to complete. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors.
Notes
- For extra heat, include some jalapeño seeds in the sliced jalapeños.
- If preferred, substitute ranch dressing with a spicy mayo for a different flavor profile.
- Use a 80/20 blend of ground beef for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before placing the patties to achieve the signature crispy edges of a smash burger.
- Softened cream cheese mixes more easily with the garlic powder for a smooth spread.
Keywords: jalapeño popper burger, smash burger, cheddar cheese burger, creamy ranch burger, spicy burger, easy stovetop burger, homemade burgers
