These smash burgers are juicy and flavorful, topped with a fun baconnaise sauce that adds a zesty twist! It’s the ultimate comfort food for burger lovers!
When I make these, I can’t resist sneaking a bite before they’re all served. The crispy edges and creamy sauce just make me happy! 🍔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is great for juicy burgers. If you prefer leaner meat, try using 85/15, but you might lose some moisture. For a healthier option, turkey or chicken can also work, though flavors will change.
Bacon Grease: This adds a unique flavor to the baconnaise. If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable oil or olive oil as a substitute, but you’ll miss that smoky taste. For a vegan option, consider using vegan mayonnaise with a dash of liquid smoke.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich flavor. If you’re not a fan, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack for a kick can be great alternatives.
Burger Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice crunch. You can swap them for potato buns for a softer texture or even lettuce wraps to keep things lighter.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burgers?
The technique of smashing is key to getting that delicious crust and juicy inside. Here’s how to smash burgers perfectly:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a good sear.
- Place your beef ball on the pan and immediately use a spatula to press down firmly. Aim for about a half-inch thickness.
- Don’t lift the spatula too soon! Let it cook for 2-3 minutes — this is where the crust forms.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing for the best flavor.
Trust me, a good smash gets those edges crispy and keeps your burger juicy!
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup crispy bacon bits (cooked)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease (or rendered bacon fat)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. You’ll whip up the baconnaise sauce, form and cook the burgers, and then assemble everything in no time. A delicious meal in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, bacon grease, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended. Set it aside for later.
2. Form the Patties:
Take your ground beef and divide it into four equal parts, each weighing about 4 ounces. Roll each piece into a ball, but be careful not to over-handle the meat. This keeps them tender!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Place the beef balls onto the pan and, with a spatula, smash them down gently to form thin patties. Season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see a nice crust forming, then flip them over. Right after flipping, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Toast the Buns:
While your patties are sizzling, toast your sesame seed burger buns. You can do this in a separate pan or under a broiler until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your burgers!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s almost time to eat! Take each toasted bun and spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on the bottom half. Add a layer of shredded lettuce, then place your cheesy smash patty on top. Sprinkle some crispy bacon bits over the cheese, and finally, pop the top half of the bun on!
6. Serve:
Your smash burgers are ready to go! Serve them up immediately and don’t forget to provide some extra baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy this tasty treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute. Just keep in mind that turkey has less fat than beef, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil or additional bacon grease to maintain moisture and flavor when cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon Grease?
If you prefer not to use bacon grease, you can substitute with unsalted butter or olive oil for a different flavor profile. If you want that bacon taste, consider using a store-bought bacon-flavored oil, if available!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
Store leftover burgers and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The burgers will last for up to 3 days, and the baconnaise sauce can be stored for about a week. When reheating, warm the patties on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce in Advance?
Definitely! The baconnaise sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container, and give it a good stir before using to refresh the flavors!
