Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun) Recipe
If you’ve ever wanted to take your burger game up a notch while skipping the bun, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun). Imagine juicy ground beef—or plant-based meat if you prefer—packed with melting cheese, all wrapped up in sweet, deeply caramelized onion slices that get smashed to perfection on a hot skillet. The result? A dramatic, delicious, and oh-so-photogenic burger experience that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This recipe is a total showstopper and perfect for those who crave comfort food without the usual bread overload.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture. The sweet onions provide a tender, caramelized embrace, the meat offers juicy richness, and that melty cheese inside? Absolute magic. Don’t skip the salt and pepper as they bring everything alive!
- 2 large onions, sliced: Sweet and sturdy, these will wrap around your patties to become the bun alternative, caramelizing beautifully under heat.
- 200g ground beef or plant-based meat: Choose your favorite protein base, fresh and flavorful, forming the juicy core.
- Cheese slices: Melty and gooey, cheese adds richness and a creamy surprise in every bite.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of meat and onion without overpowering.
How to Make Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun)
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Slices
Start by peeling and slicing your onions into thick rings wide enough to encase your burger patties. These rings will replace the traditional bun, giving you a sweet and tender wrapper that crisps up on the skillet. Keep the slices uniform so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Form the Meat Patties with Cheese Inside
Take your ground meat or plant-based alternative and divide it into small portions. Flatten each portion a bit, place a slice of cheese on top, then mold the meat around the cheese fully sealing it inside. This step creates that molten cheese surprise at the center of your Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun).
Step 3: Wrap the Patties in Onion Rings
Gently take the prepared onion slices and wrap them around each stuffed patty. The onion acts as a natural casing, adding sweetness and moisture while you cook.
Step 4: Smash and Cook on a Hot Skillet
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Place your onion-wrapped patties on the skillet, then smash them firmly. The smashing is key—it gives you that caramelized, crispy crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender inside. Let them cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the onions are golden and the meat is cooked through.
How to Serve Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun)
Garnishes
A touch of fresh greens like arugula or baby spinach adds peppery brightness, while a dollop of tangy mustard or aioli can elevate the rich flavors. Don’t underestimate the power of a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Because these burgers are bun-free and packed with flavor, pairing them with crisp roasted vegetables or a zesty salad complements without overwhelming. Sweet potato fries or a light coleslaw also make fantastic sides, balancing the savory richness of the Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun).
Creative Ways to Present
These burgers are already picture-perfect, but for a wow factor, serve them stacked as sliders on plates garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. Alternatively, present them with dipping sauces in small ramekins to encourage dipping and sharing. The dramatic caramelization of the onion layers makes every angle a winner for food photos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap each burger tightly in parchment paper and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keeping the onions intact helps retain moisture and flavor during storage.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun). Wrap each burger well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to a month for best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve that crispy onion exterior. Avoid microwaving as it can make the onions soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese inside the burgers?
Absolutely! Cheeses that melt well like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda work beautifully. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite molten center.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, since these burgers skip the traditional bun, they are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any seasoning or condiments you use are labeled gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to ensure the onion doesn’t separate from the patty while cooking?
Make sure the onion slices are thick enough to hold the patty and press the onion gently against the meat when wrapping. Also, handle the patties carefully and use a hot skillet for immediate caramelization that seals everything in place.
Can I use this method with other vegetables?
You can try substituting onions with thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or even bell peppers, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will change. Onions provide sweetness and caramelization that’s hard to beat.
How do I make this dish vegan?
Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative and use vegan cheese slices. Ensure your skillet is clean of animal fats, and the method remains the same for a delicious vegan-friendly Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun) version.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal, and these Stuffed Onion Smash Burgers (No Bun) do just that with style, flavor, and minimal fuss. Once you try this recipe, you’ll have a new favorite that’s perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself on a casual night in. Grab your skillet and get ready to make burger magic happen!
