These Smash Burgers are juicy, flat patties packed with flavor, topped with a special Baconnaise Sauce that takes them to the next level. It’s a burger lover’s dream!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want bacon-flavored mayo? It’s like a party in your mouth! I love prepping these for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy and fun.
Just smash the burger patties on the grill, slather on the Baconnaise, and watch everyone smile with each bite. Quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the perfect mix of lean meat to fat for juicy patties. If you’d prefer leaner or vegetarian options, ground turkey or black bean patties can work, but the texture will change.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully for that classic burger experience. However, cheddar delivers a sharper flavor if you prefer. Feel free to use any cheese that melts well, like Swiss or pepper jack.
Onions: Sweet onions work best for caramelizing, but yellow onions will do great, too. You could even use shallots for a milder taste if you like. If you’re short on time, skip caramelizing and use raw onion slices instead.
Baconnaise Sauce: Mayo is the base here, but feel free to swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier version. Another great alternative could be vegan mayo or even hummus for a different flavor profile!
How Can I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions adds sweetness and complexity to your burgers. It seems simple, but a little patience is key. Start by heating a skillet to medium and adding oil for a non-stick surface.
- Add sliced onions and stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes until they start turning golden brown. If they’re browning too fast, lower the heat.
- Don’t rush this step! The longer you cook them, the sweeter and more flavorful they become.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Oil for cooking
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 strips of cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 45 minutes. You’ll spend a few extra minutes letting the baconnaise sauce chill while you cook the burgers. Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well combined. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to let the flavors blend together.
2. Cook the Onions:
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes or until they become caramelized and golden brown. Once done, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Form the Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (around 4 ounces each). Roll each portion into a loose ball without pressing them too tightly. This will help keep the burgers juicy!
4. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Turn up the heat to high on the skillet or griddle. If needed, add a little more oil and let it heat up. Place the beef balls onto the hot surface and smash them down with a sturdy spatula or a burger press until they’re about 1/2 inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them, so a crispy crust can form, then flip them over.
5. Add Cheese and Onions:
As soon as you flip the burgers, place a slice of cheese on each one and top with some of the caramelized onions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are finishing, toast the sesame seed buns in another skillet or on the griddle until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous spoonful of the chilled baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a burger patty with melted cheese and onions on top. Feel free to add more sauce if you love it! Finally, top it with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Dig into your homemade smash burgers while they’re hot! Pair them with your favorite fries or chips for a fantastic meal.
Enjoy the tasty, juicy goodness of your smash burgers with that smoky baconnaise! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef Instead?
While you can use lean ground beef, it’s best to stick with an 80/20 blend for optimal flavor and juiciness. Lean beef can result in drier burgers. If you must use lean beef, consider adding a bit of olive oil to the mixture to help retain moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
You can store leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before using it again, as ingredients may separate. This sauce is also great as a dip or for spreading on sandwiches!
Can I Make the Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in a skillet before adding them to your burgers. It will save you time when you’re ready to assemble your smash burgers!
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to replace mayonnaise in the baconnaise sauce, consider using Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. Alternatively, you can try avocado for a creamy texture that’s a bit healthier. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly!
