Burger with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Burger Patties:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juicier burgers)
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices cheddar cheese
4 brioche burger buns
For the Caramelized Onions:

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
For the Special Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp pickle relish
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:

 Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.

 Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.

 Make the Smash Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Once hot, add one portion of beef to the skillet and press down firmly with a spatula to “smash” the patty flat. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty to melt during the last minute of cooking. Repeat with the remaining beef portions to create double-stacked burgers.

 Toast the Buns:
In the same skillet, lightly toast the brioche buns until golden brown.

 Assemble the Burger:
Spread the special sauce on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a generous amount of caramelized onions on the bottom bun, followed by two cheese-topped burger patties. Add the top bun and press gently.

 Serve:
Enjoy your juicy, cheesy smash burger with caramelized onions and special sauce! Serve with fries or a side of your choice.