These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor, topped with a special baconnaise sauce that adds a creamy, smoky twist. It’s a burger lover’s dream!
While grilling, I can’t help but sneak a little bacon on the side for snacking. Make sure to have plenty of napkins ready; things might get messy in the best way possible! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend of ground beef is great for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, a 90/10 blend will work, but the burgers may be a bit drier. Mix in a little olive oil to help retain moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its flavor, but feel free to mix it up! American cheese melts beautifully, or you could use pepper jack for some added spice.
Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic, but any sturdy burger bun works. You could use whole wheat or brioche buns for a twist. Just ensure they can hold the burger’s juiciness!
Baconnaise Sauce: Mayonnaise is key for creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative. You can skip the bacon grease, but it adds lovely flavor. Vegans can replace mayo with a chickpea salad or avocado mash for a similar creaminess.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burgers?
The technique of smashing the patties is what gives these burgers a great crust. Preheat your skillet or griddle until it’s nice and hot. This high heat seals in the juices and creates that delicious outer layer.
- Form the ground beef into loose balls without packing them tightly.
- Once in the skillet, use a spatula or burger press to apply firm pressure to flatten each patty. Aim for about ½ inch thick!
- Season immediately with salt and pepper to enhance flavor. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to form a crust before flipping.
Trust me, this technique makes all the difference for juicy, flavorful burgers! Enjoy the satisfying crunch when biting into these smash burgers.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Butter, for toasting the buns
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped finely
- 1 tbsp bacon grease (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including a little time to chill the baconnaise sauce. You’ll have time to sauté the onions, cook the burgers, and assemble everything into tasty smash burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, bacon grease (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and then set it aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the meal.
2. Cook the Onions:
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil or butter. Toss in the sliced onions and sauté them until they turn translucent and caramelized, which should take about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Form the Patties:
Now it’s time for the meat! Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Gently shape them into balls—don’t overwork the meat to keep the burgers juicy.
4. Smash the Patties:
Preheat a griddle or a heavy skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet. Use a spatula or a burger press to press each ball down into a flat patty. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms.
5. Add Cheese:
When the patties are nicely seared, flip them over. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Toast the Buns:
In another skillet, melt some butter over medium heat and toast the sesame seed burger buns until they are golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch to your burger!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put it all together! Spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with a smashed beef patty with melted cheese and a handful of the caramelized onions. Spread a little more baconnaise on the top bun, then close the burger.
8. Serve:
Your smash burgers are ready! Serve them hot and enjoy with extra baconnaise on the side for dipping, if you like. Yum!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Burgers?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so ensure your patties are cooked through and reach the appropriate internal temperature.
How Do I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store any leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can use it as a dip or spread on sandwiches for added flavor. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
Can I Prepare the Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can caramelize the onions in advance! Just cook them as directed, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat before assembling your burgers.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon Grease?
If you don’t have bacon grease or prefer not to use it, you can simply omit it from the baconnaise sauce without sacrificing flavor. Alternatively, adding a little extra mayonnaise or a touch of smoked olive oil can provide a different but delicious flavor profile!
