The PERFECT Jalapeño Popper Smashburger Recipe!

Ingredients

• 8 slices Bacon (diced)
• 1 medium White Onion (diced fine)
• 1/4 cup Espresso (or strong black coffee) (freshly brewed)
• 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Fresh Raspberries (roughly 60 g, can use frozen)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 pound Ground Beef (75% lean, 25% fat) (for two patties)
• 2 Jalapeno Pepper (thinly sliced, seeds optional)
• 2 slices Havarti Cheese (or American cheese if preferred)
• 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened, then whipped)
• 2 Burger Buns (soft sandwich buns, toasted if desired)
• 1 tablespoon Butter (for toasting buns (optional))

Instructions

1. Render the Bacon

   Add the diced bacon to a hot large skillet over medium‑high heat. Stir constantly so the pieces cook evenly and the fat fully renders.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: medium-high

2. Drain the Bacon

   Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Carefully pour off excess grease from the pan (discard or save for another use).

   Time: PT2M

3. Sauté the Onion

   Add the diced white onion to the same skillet and sauté, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: medium-high

4. Add Jam Base Ingredients

   Stir in the espresso, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, fresh raspberries, salt, pepper, and the rendered bacon pieces.

   Time: PT2M

5. Simmer the Bacon Jam

   Reduce heat to medium‑low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 45‑50 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until it thickens to a jam‑like consistency.

   Time: PT45M

   Temperature: medium-low

6. Prepare the Beef Patties

   While the jam simmers, place the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Gently shape into two equal balls (about 1/2 lb each) without over‑working.

   Time: PT5M

7. Slice Jalapenos and Cheese

   Thinly slice the jalapenos and set aside. Slice the Havarti cheese (or American cheese) so it can melt quickly.

   Time: PT2M

8. Pre‑heat Skillet for Smash Burgers

   Increase the skillet heat to high and let it become very hot (about 3 minutes).

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: high

9. Smash and Cook Patties

   Place one beef ball in the skillet, immediately scatter a few jalapeno slices on top, then press down firmly with a burger press or flat spatula to create a thin patty. Cook 2 minutes, then flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook another 1 minute until cheese melts.

   Time: PT6M

   Temperature: high

10. Whip the Cream Cheese

    In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy.

    Time: PT2M

11. Assemble the Burger

    Spread a generous layer of whipped cream cheese on the bottom bun. Place the two cooked patties (cheese‑melted) on top. Spoon a good amount of warm bacon jam over the patties, then cap with the top bun.

    Time: PT5M

12. Serve

    Serve immediately while the burgers are hot and the jam is still warm. Enjoy!

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

850

Protein

45 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

55 g

Fiber

3 g