Overview

Air fryer onion rings are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These crispy, golden rings are the perfect snack or side dish, delivering all the crunch and flavor of deep-fried onion rings without the guilt. 

▢  Ground Beef: The star of the show! Use 80/20 ground chuck for the ideal fat ratio and flavor.
American Cheese: It melts like a dream and is such a classic choice!
Soft Hamburger Buns: I like to use brioche or potato rolls since they’re nice and soft.
Butter: It helps achieve that coveted crispy, lacy edge on the patties.
Salt and Black Pepper: Season generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
Burger Sauce: The mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and pickle brine has a nice kick.
Toppings: Use shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and dill pickle chips.

1. Divide the beef. Gently shape ground beef into 8 loose balls. Keep them chilled.
2. Mix the burger sauce. Combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle brine, and seasonings in a bowl. Refrigerate.
3. Toast the buns. Butter the cut sides of 4 soft hamburger buns. Toast on a griddle until golden brown.
4. Heat the skillet. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high until smoking hot.
5. Smash the patties. Place 2-3 beef balls on the hot skillet. Immediately smash firmly into very thin patties, about 1/4 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Flip and add cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges are brown and crispy. Flip the patties and top each with a slice of American cheese. Cook for 30-60 seconds more until the cheese is melted.
7. Assemble the burgers. Spread the burger sauce on the bottom buns. Top each with 2 patties, then lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Cover with the top buns.
8. Serve hot. Serve the smash burgers immediately while hot and the cheese is melty. Enjoy!