There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, perfectly cooked smash burger with crispy edges, topped with a rich and tangy baconnaise sauce. It's the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet simple, satisfying everyone from burger enthusiasts to picky eaters.
I first discovered the magic of smash burgers during a backyard barbecue experiment. The sizzling sound of beef hitting a hot griddle and the aroma of smoky bacon infused into a creamy sauce instantly made it a hit. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for burger nights, loved for its bold flavors and quick prep time. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try!
Why You'll Love This Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Get ready to elevate your burger game with this easy and irresistible recipe. Smash burgers are all about maximum flavor and minimal fuss, making them a favorite for weeknights or weekend gatherings.
First, these burgers are incredibly quick and simple to make. With just a few pantry staples and about 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your plate.
Second, the crispy caramelized crust on the burger patties is a game-changer. Flattening the beef on a hot griddle ensures those edges get perfectly seared while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Then, there’s the baconnaise sauce—a creamy blend of mayonnaise, crispy bacon bits, and a hint of tang. This sauce isn’t just a condiment; it’s a flavor explosion that takes these burgers to the next level.
Lastly, this recipe is super customizable. Swap the buns, add your favorite toppings, or even turn it into a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option. There’s no wrong way to enjoy these smash burgers!
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of smash burgers lies in their simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can achieve a flavor-packed meal. Let’s talk about what makes each one special.
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and texture, go with 80/20 ground beef. The higher fat content ensures juicy patties and helps create that signature crispy edge.
Bacon: The heart of the baconnaise sauce! Cook it until it’s crispy, then crumble it finely. The smoky, salty flavor complements the rich creaminess of the mayo.
Mayonnaise: Use a high-quality mayonnaise as the base for the sauce. It provides the creamy consistency that ties all the flavors together.
Burger Buns: Choose soft, sturdy buns that can hold up to the juicy patties and sauce without falling apart. Brioche buns are an excellent choice for their slight sweetness.
Toppings: Keep it classic with lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, or get creative with caramelized onions and avocado slices. Don’t forget melty cheese like cheddar or American!
Special Equipment: A cast-iron skillet or flat griddle is essential for getting the perfect smash and crispy edges on the burgers. You’ll also need a sturdy spatula to press down the patties.
How to Make This Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Crafting these burgers is a straightforward process with maximum reward. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Start by preparing the baconnaise sauce. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, crispy bacon bits, a dash of lemon juice, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Stir until well combined and set aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
Next, heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. This is key for achieving a crispy sear on the patties.
Divide the ground beef into equal portions (about 4 ounces each) and gently roll them into balls. Place a ball onto the hot skillet and use a spatula to press it down firmly into a thin patty. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until crispy, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Once flipped, immediately top each patty with a slice of cheese so it melts as the burger finishes cooking.
While the patties are cooking, toast your burger buns on the griddle until golden brown. This adds a nice texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy.
Assemble your burgers by spreading a generous layer of baconnaise sauce on each bun. Add the cheesy patty and your favorite toppings, then finish with the top bun.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them for the best results.
- Burgers: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore some of that crispy texture.
- Baconnaise Sauce: Keep the sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before using.
- Buns: Store buns in a bread box or airtight bag to keep them soft and fresh. Toast again before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the buns for lettuce wraps or portobello mushroom caps.
- Spicy Twist: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chopped jalapeños to the baconnaise sauce for a kick.
- Veggie Version: Use plant-based ground beef and vegan mayo for a meat-free alternative.
- Extra Bacon: Layer crispy bacon strips on top of the patty for double the bacon goodness.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, blue cheese, or Swiss for a unique flavor profile.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is designed to be flexible and fun, so mix and match until you find your perfect combination.
Enjoy these smash burgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a meal that’s sure to impress!
PrintSmash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce combine crispy-edged beef patties with a creamy, smoky bacon-infused sauce. A must-try for burger lovers craving bold flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling / Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- For the Smash Burgers:
- Ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper
- Soft burger buns
- Sliced cheese (cheddar or American)
- Pickles and lettuce (optional for topping)
- For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp finely chopped crispy bacon
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, crispy bacon, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside. - Heat the Griddle or Pan:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. - Form and Smash Patties:
Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (approx. 4 oz each). Roll into loose balls, place them on the hot griddle, and smash them flat with a spatula. - Cook the Patties:
Season patties with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, adding cheese during the last minute of cooking. - Assemble the Burgers:
Toast buns, spread Baconnaise Sauce on both sides, and layer with a cooked patty, lettuce, pickles, or other desired toppings. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately with your favorite sides like fries or coleslaw.
Notes
- Use a sturdy metal spatula to smash patties for crispier edges.
- Baconnaise Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the Baconnaise.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
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