These smash burgers are so juicy and full of flavor, thanks to the crunchy edges! The special baconnaise sauce adds a creamy, smoky twist that takes these burgers to the next level.
Honestly, who doesn’t love the sound of meat sizzling on the grill? 🍔 I love serving these burgers with crispy fries. They’re quick to make and always a hit at any get-together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Aim for an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though it might be less juicy. Some like a 75/25 blend for even richer flavor!
Cheese: American is great for its meltiness, but cheddar adds a sharp taste. Use your favorite cheese! Pepper jack for a kick or Swiss for a milder touch are both awesome substitutes too!
Vegetable Oil: While I recommend vegetable oil for its high smoke point, canola or avocado oil can work well too. Just avoid olive oil as it could burn at the high heat needed for cooking burgers.
Baconnaise Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base here, but Greek yogurt or sour cream can work as a healthier alternative. For a vegan version, try using a plant-based mayo and some crispy tempeh instead of bacon!
How Do You Cook the Perfect Smash Burger?
Cooking smash burgers perfectly can be tricky but totally worth it! The trick is all in the smashing and cooking method. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle. Preheating is crucial to get that nice crust!
- Don’t overwork the meat. Just form loose balls; the less you handle it, the better.
- When smashing, press down firmly but avoid overdoing it. You want a flat patty, not mush!
- Cook until a crust forms before flipping. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes. Wait for that golden-brown color!
- Let the cheese melt with a lid on the skillet for a minute for that gooey goodness.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheese (American or cheddar)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the sauce and caramelize the onions, followed by another 15-20 minutes to cook the burgers. You’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by mixing the baconnaise sauce! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Set this tasty sauce aside; it’s going to elevate your burgers!
2. Cook the Onions:
Next, we’ll cook the onions. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, throw in the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and nicely caramelized. Once done, take them off the heat and set aside.
3. Form and Cook the Smash Burgers:
It’s burger time! Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Form each portion into a loose ball, but don’t pack it too tightly. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat. When it’s hot, add the beef balls to the skillet, leaving space in between them. Using a flat spatula, smash each ball down flat, pressing firmly to create a thin patty. Sprinkle on some salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see a nice crust form. Then, flip each patty over. Top each patty with a slice of cheese and let it melt for another 1-2 minutes. Yum!
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Now, let’s put it all together! Lightly toast the sesame seed buns on the skillet or griddle until they’re warm. Spread a generous amount of your baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy smash burger patty on top, and add a scoop of those delicious caramelized onions. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.
5. Serve:
Your Smash Burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them immediately while they’re hot and juicy. If you like, offer some extra baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your mouthwatering creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 blend of ground beef gives the best flavor and juiciness, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you might need to adjust the seasoning to enhance flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Leftover baconnaise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s perfect as a dip or spread for sandwiches and wraps. If you notice the sauce separating, simply stir it to recombine before using!
Can I Make the Smash Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the burger patties ahead of time! Form the patties and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw them in the fridge overnight before smashing and cooking!
What Other Toppings Can I Add to My Smash Burgers?
The sky’s the limit! Consider adding pickles, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or even jalapeños for some heat. You can also use different types of cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, for a unique twist. Get creative with your toppings to customize your smash burgers!
