These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to the crispy edges that form when you press them down on the grill. The special baconnaise sauce adds a creamy bacon twist!
Who doesn’t love bacon? I drizzle that baconnaise on everything! 😋 You can whip these burgers up quickly, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a fun weekend cookout.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is my go-to for juiciness, but you can swap it out for leaner beef or even turkey if you’d like a healthier option. Just note that leaner meats might require careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Bacon: For this recipe, crispy bacon adds great flavor. Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative. You can also leave it out entirely for a meat-free option, but don’t forget to adjust the sauce to keep the flavor intense.
Cheese: I recommend American or cheddar for that melty goodness. However, feel free to use Swiss, pepper jack, or any cheese you love. Just remember, stronger cheeses will alter the flavor profile!
Baconnaise Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise is classic, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap for a tangy twist! If you’re avoiding eggs, look for egg-free mayo or use avocado instead for a creamy texture.
How Do I Smash Burger Patties Perfectly?
The secret to a great smash burger lies in the cooking technique. It’s all about recreating that perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy.
- Heat your skillet until it’s really hot—almost smoking. This helps create a nice crust.
- When you place the meatballs, smash them down firmly with a spatula. This increases contact with the skillet for better browning.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Wait until you see juices starting to form on top before turning. This ensures a flavorful crust.
And always season each side! A bit of salt and pepper on the smashed side enhances flavor and helps form that delicious crust.
How to Make Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheese (American, cheddar, or your preference)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Lettuce leaves for topping
- Cooked bacon, chopped (about 4 slices)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp bacon grease (or bacon fat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare the Baconnaise sauce and cook the bacon, and about 15-20 minutes to cook the smash burgers and assemble everything. Have everything ready and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and bacon grease. Then add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge so the flavors can blend while you work on the burgers.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Fry them until they’re crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra grease. Let them cool down a bit, then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Smash Burgers:
Turn up the heat on your cast-iron skillet or griddle to high. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each, and roll them into balls. Place the meatballs in the hot skillet with some space between them. Grab a spatula and smash each ball down into a patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Season the tops generously with salt and pepper.
Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until the edges look browned and juicy. Flip them over and immediately place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach your desired level of doneness.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
If you like, lightly toast the burger buns on the skillet until golden. On the bottom half of each bun, place a crisp lettuce leaf. Add the cheesy burger patty on top, then pile on a generous amount of your Baconnaise sauce and sprinkle the chopped bacon over it. Finally, place the other half of the bun on top.
5. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve your delicious smash burgers warm, paired with your favorite side, like golden fries or a fresh salad. Dive into this tasty treat and savor every bite!
Enjoy your flavorful Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Just be sure to choose a mix that has a higher fat content (like 85/15) to keep the burgers juicy since ground turkey can dry out more easily.
How Can I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store any leftover Baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It makes a great dip for fries or a spread for sandwiches, so don’t hesitate to get creative with it!
Can I Make the Burgers Without Bacon?
Absolutely! If you prefer a bacon-free version, just omit the bacon but consider adding extra seasoning to the patties to maintain flavor. You can also add a smoked cheese for a similar depth of flavor, or try some caramelized onions for added sweetness!
What Should I Serve with Smash Burgers?
Smash burgers pair wonderfully with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them with onion rings, potato wedges, or even a light pasta salad for a fun twist!
