This was one of those “nope, not making what I planned” nights, and honestly? No regrets. We had just enough ground beef to form five mini patties—each topped with a glorious mound of shredded cheddar. Steve naturally complained that 1/4 lb was “too small,” then pivoted to being upset that they weren’t smash burgers. 🙄 Gotta love consistency.

The patties were cooked to a lovely medium rare (although you’d never convince Steve of that without showing the internal probe hole). A side of crispy onion rings was the perfect salty, crunchy contrast. Simple. Classic. Totally satisfying.

📷 Photo Journal

Five cheddar-crowned burger bites ready to party

Cooked skinny onion rings stacked inside a metal mixing bowl — Crispy golden rings, because fries are overrated

📝 Thursday Notes

Let the record show: I planned something else entirely, but sometimes a beef-and-onion-ring kind of night just wins. These little patties may have been small, but they packed in the flavor. And let’s be honest, the cheddar was doing most of the heavy lifting.

Also, MyFitnessPal had an emotional breakdown about my calories. Whatever. I’m still not lying to my app.

🎬 Behind the Scenes

The patties started in a skillet and got a cheese crown while still hot. I could have smashed them. I didn’t. (Sorry, Steve.) The onion rings came from a bag, and no, I don’t feel bad about it. My air fryer did all the work while I sipped wine and contemplated whether I’d have room for cheese cubes later.

📷 #OurEverydayFoodJourney

Made this at home? Want to join me in not making what you planned either? Tag us with your version—or just share your “this-is-good-enough” meals.

#weeknightdinner #seasonalmeals #ourdailyplate #oureverydayfoodjourney #NotASmashBurgerButStillTasty