Depression Era Onion Smash Cheeseburgers
These Depression Era onion smash cheeseburgers are a budget-friendly classic made with thinly smashed beef, lots of caramelized onions, and melty American cheese. Cooked in a cast iron skillet and finished by steaming the buns, this old-fashioned recipe delivers crispy edges, juicy flavor, and pure nostalgic comfort.
- Prep Time: 5 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 10 MINS
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 BURGER 1x
- Category: DINNER | BURGER
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Per Burger)
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1/4 teaspoon oil
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5 ounces freshly ground beef, divided into two 2 1/2-ounce balls
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Kosher salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 medium onion, very thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
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2 slices American cheese
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2 soft hamburger buns
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Mustard, pickles, or other condiments, optional
Instructions
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Lightly spread oil inside a large cast iron skillet using a paper towel. Heat over medium-high until the skillet is hot and just beginning to smoke.
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Add the two balls of beef to the skillet and immediately top with a generous handful of sliced onions.
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Using the back of a sturdy spatula, press the beef and onions firmly until very thin and fully smashed.
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Season generously with salt and black pepper. Cook until the edges of the beef are deeply browned and crispy.
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Carefully flip the burgers using a stiff spatula, scraping up all the browned bits. Reduce heat to medium.
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Cook for about 1 minute, until the onions begin to soften.
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Place one slice of American cheese on each burger. Top each with the bottom bun, then place the top bun upside-down over the bottom bun to allow it to steam.
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Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the onions are fully caramelized, the cheese is melted, and the buns are soft.
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Remove the top buns, add condiments if desired, then lift the burger, onions, and bottom bun together onto a plate.
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Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
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Thinly sliced onions are key for proper caramelization.
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American cheese melts best for this classic style.
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Cast iron gives the crispiest edges, but a heavy skillet will also work.