Get ready for a burger experience with these smash burgers! They’re juicy, crispy, and topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce that adds a tasty twist.
I love how quick and easy these burgers are to make. Plus, who wouldn’t want to spread delicious baconnaise on everything? It’s a winner in my book! 🍔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend. This fat content gives burgers great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10, but remember it may be less juicy.
Buns: Sesame seed buns are great for their texture and taste. If you prefer, you can swap them for brioche or whole wheat buns for a different flavor or a healthier choice.
Bacon: Chopped cooked bacon adds a delicious crunch. You could also use turkey bacon or leave it out completely for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind the flavor will change!
Baconnaise Sauce: This sauce is a star in the recipe! For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise or even sour cream. You can also add sriracha for some heat!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash Burger Patty?
Getting that perfect smash burger is all about technique. After shaping the beef loosely, you’ll want to use a spatula to smash the patty on the hot skillet. This helps to get those crispy edges! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is really hot to sear the beef properly.
- Use a sturdy spatula and press down firmly, but be gentle to avoid squeezing out too much juice.
- Let the patty cook untouched for 3-4 minutes before flipping to develop a nice crust.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp bacon grease (rendered from cooking bacon)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Lettuce leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus around 10-15 minutes for cooking. So, in about 30 minutes, you can enjoy tasty smash burgers topped with delicious baconnaise sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, bacon grease, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed together nicely. Set this flavorful sauce aside while you prepare the burgers.
2. Prepare the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently shape them into loose balls—don’t pack the meat too tightly!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the beef balls on the skillet. Carefully smash each ball down with a spatula to form thin patties. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper on top. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the edges get crispy, then flip the patties over.
4. Add Cheese:
Once you flip the patties, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one and let it melt while they cook for another 1-2 minutes. Yum!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, take another pan and toast the sesame seed buns until they are golden and slightly crispy. This adds a great texture!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each toasted bun. On the bottom bun, place a lettuce leaf, then add your cheesy smash burger patty, and top it with the chopped bacon. Finally, cap it off with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Enjoy your delicious smash burgers right away! You can serve them with a bit more baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. Happiness is about to happen!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! However, keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so it may require a bit more fat for richness. Consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or more bacon grease to help maintain moisture and flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon Grease?
No worries! If you don’t have bacon grease on hand, you can replace it with olive oil or melted butter for a similar richness in the baconnaise sauce. Just use about the same amount, and it will still taste delicious!
How to Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store any leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly while sitting.
Can I Make These Burgers on the Grill?
Absolutely! If you prefer grilling, shape your patties slightly thicker and preheat your grill to high heat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, adding the cheese during the last minute to allow it to melt. Just make sure not to press down on the patties to keep them juicy!
