These easy smash burgers are juicy and full of flavor, topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce that takes them to the next level! Perfect for a quick dinner or backyard cookout.
Making these burgers is as fun as eating them! I love how simply smashing the patties creates that tasty crust. Plus, who can resist a burger with baconnaise? It’s a game-changer! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives you juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute.
Onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use raw onions for a sharper taste or sauté them briefly instead of caramelizing for a milder flavor.
Cheese: I recommend white American or Swiss cheese for that melty goodness. For a different spin, try cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of spice!
Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic, but feel free to use brioche, whole wheat, or gluten-free buns to suit your preferences.
Baconnaise Sauce: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a creamier, tangy option. Adding a bit of ranch seasoning can give it a nice twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burger Patties?
The key to a deliciously crispy smash burger is all in the technique. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle – it needs to be hot to get that nice crust.
- Form the beef loosely into balls, not packed tight. This helps keep it tender.
- When you smash the beef, do it quickly and firmly with a spatula for an even patty.
- Don’t move the patty around while it cooks! Let it be to develop that crust, about 2 minutes.
- Adding cheese immediately after flipping helps it melt perfectly, so everything is ready at the same time!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy, flavor-packed smash burgers every time!
Easy Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of cheese (white American or Swiss cheese recommended)
- Butter or oil for cooking onions and toasting buns
For the Creamy Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp cooked bacon bits or finely chopped cooked bacon
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. You can whip up the creamy baconnaise sauce while the onions are caramelizing, making this a quick and delightful meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Baconnaise Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cooked bacon bits, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste and season with a little salt and pepper if needed. Place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and caramelized. Take them off the heat and set aside.
3. Toast the Buns:
In the same skillet or a separate griddle, heat it over medium-high. Lightly butter or oil the insides of the burger buns and place them cut-side down on the skillet. Toast them until they’re nice and golden brown, then remove and set aside.
4. Shape the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, loosely formed into balls, about 4 oz each. Don’t pack them too tightly.
5. Smash the Burgers:
Place one ball of beef on the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, smash the ball flat quickly to create a thin patty with crispy edges. Season generously with salt and pepper.
6. Cook the Patties:
Let the smashed patty cook without moving it for about 2 minutes until a nice crust forms. Flip the patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is fully cooked.
7. Repeat Cooking:
Repeat the smashing and cooking process with the remaining beef balls until you have all your patties cooked.
8. Assemble Your Burgers:
Start by spreading a generous amount of creamy baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a hot, melted cheese smash burger patty on top, add a good amount of caramelized onions, and drizzle more baconnaise sauce if you wish!
9. Final Touch:
Place the top bun over the burger and serve immediately. Enjoy your juicy, crispy-edged smash burgers enhanced with the creamy, smoky baconnaise sauce!
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking! 🍔
FAQ for Easy Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While an 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy burgers, you can use leaner beef like 90/10. Just keep in mind that your burgers may be less juicy and tender, so consider adding a bit of oil to the beef mixture for moisture.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baconnaise sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh until you’re ready to use it!
What Should I Do with Leftover Burger Patties?
If you have leftover patties, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a slice of cheese on top for that melty goodness!
Can I Add Toppings to These Burgers?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your burgers with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or avocado. Just make sure the additional toppings complement the creamy baconnaise sauce!
