Spicy Jalapeño Popper Smash Sliders

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Smash Sliders ingredients

• Burger Patties & Assembly
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 4 count slider buns
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño slices
• 1/4 cup crispy fried onions
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Spicy Cream Cheese Spread
• 1/2 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco or Frank's RedHot)

How to make Spicy Jalapeño Popper Smash Sliders

1. First, prepare the spicy cream cheese spread: In a small bowl, combine the 4 oz softened cream cheese with the 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce and 1/4 cup finely diced pickled jalapeño slices. Mix thoroughly until well combined and set aside at room temperature for easy spreading.
2. Divide the 1 lb ground beef into 4 equal, loose balls, about 4 ounces each. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can make the patties dense. Have the crispy fried onions ready if you plan to use them for topping.
3. Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it just begins to smoke, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the hot surface and spread it evenly.
4. Place two beef balls onto the hot skillet, ensuring sufficient space between them. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper over each beef ball and, using a sturdy metal spatula or burger press, smash each ball down firmly and quickly into a thin, flat patty. The strong sizzle confirms proper heat for crust formation.
5. Season the top of each smashed patty generously with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
6. Cook for 90 seconds to 2 minutes without disturbing, allowing a deep brown, crispy crust to form on the bottom. While the patties cook, lightly toast the cut sides of the 4 slider buns on a clean part of the griddle or in a separate pan until golden brown, then remove.
7. Using a sturdy spatula, carefully scrape under each patty to release it from the griddle, ensuring you get all the delicious crispy bits. Flip the patties. Continue to cook for another 30-60 seconds, or until the patties are cooked through and crispy. The internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F (71°C). Remove patties from the griddle.
8. To assemble, spread a generous amount of the prepared spicy cream cheese spread on both the top and bottom halves of each toasted slider bun. Place a smash patty on the bottom bun, then top with an optional sprinkle of crispy fried onions for added texture. Close with the top bun and serve immediately.

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