These smash burgers are fun and super tasty! They’re made with juicy beef patties that are pressed down for a crispy edge and topped with a special baconnaise sauce that’s creamy and smoky.
Who can resist that combination? I love serving these with crispy fries or onion rings for a perfect meal. Just don’t get too attached to them, or you might have to make extra! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking to reduce fat, go for a leaner blend, like 85/15. For a different flavor, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep an eye on cooking times!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a classic taste. If you want a sharper flavor, consider using aged cheddar. For non-dairy options, vegan cheese works well too.
Bacon: This ingredient really shines in the baconnaise sauce. If you need a vegetarian option, try using smoked paprika and liquid smoke to mimic that flavor without bacon.
Sesame Seed Buns: These are great for texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free buns, or try lettuce wraps for a lighter option. My personal favorite is a brioche bun for its slight sweetness!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Smash Burgers?
The trick to a great smash burger is in the cooking method. Start by gently dividing your beef without overworking it, which keeps it juicy. Once your cooking surface is preheated, smash down the patties firmly for a lovely crust.
- Heat your skillet until it’s very hot before adding the beef.
- Smash the balls with a spatula as soon as they hit the pan to get that nice crust.
- Make sure to season well before flipping!
- Don’t rush cooking; let that crust develop for 2-3 minutes before turning.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Lettuce leaves for garnish
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. You’ll have tasty smash burgers ready to enjoy in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if you want, then set it aside for later.
2. Make the Smash Burgers:
Next up, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal balls, about 4 ounces each. Be gentle with the meat to keep it nice and tender. Don’t overwork it—just form those balls and move on!
3. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Get your griddle or cast-iron skillet nice and hot by setting it over medium-high heat. A hot cooking surface is key to getting that delicious crust on your burgers.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Place each beef ball on the hot cooking surface. Using a spatula, smash down each ball firmly to make a thin patty. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, until a lovely dark crust forms on the bottom.
5. Add Cheese (if using):
Time to get cheesy! Carefully flip the patties over. If you’re using cheese, place a slice of cheddar on top of each patty now. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked to your liking.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, it’s bun time! Cut the sesame seed buns in half and lightly toast them on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Now let’s put everything together! On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place a fresh lettuce leaf. Add the cooked burger on top, followed by the melted cheese. Drizzle some of that tasty baconnaise sauce over the burger, and then place the top bun to finish it off.
8. Serve:
It’s time to dig in! Serve your delicious smash burgers immediately with your favorite side dishes like crispy fries or refreshing coleslaw. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use Different Meat for the Burgers?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional for smash burgers, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, particularly for lower-fat meats, so ensure you cook them until a safe internal temperature is reached.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The baconnaise sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before using to mix everything back together after it’s been sitting.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftover burgers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water and covering the skillet can help keep them moist!
What Can I Use Instead of Sesame Seed Buns?
Great question! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use whole wheat buns, lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or even brioche buns for a sweeter taste. Just ensure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold the juicy burger!
