These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce that has a hint of bacon goodness, they’re sure to make your taste buds dance.
Honestly, who can resist a burger that’s crispy and messy? I like to add extra sauce on top, because more baconnaise is always a good idea! 🍔😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend because it strikes a great balance between flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, 85/15 or 90/10 works but may result in drier burgers.
Onions: For the best flavor, use sweet or yellow onions, which caramelize nicely. You can swap with shallots for a milder taste or omit onions entirely if that’s your preference.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that classic burger flavor. Cheddar is a nice substitute if you want something with a stronger taste. Swiss or Pepper Jack can also be fun alternatives!
Baconnaise Sauce: If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise. Crumbled turkey bacon will work in place of regular bacon for a healthier option. You could also add some hot sauce for a spicy kick!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burgers?
The key to smash burgers is the cooking technique. You want to create a crust that enhances the flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Use very high heat—this is crucial for a good sear.
- Divide your beef into loose balls (about 4 ounces is ideal) without packing them too tightly.
- Once in the skillet, smash the balls down with a heavy spatula or burger press within seconds to keep that meat juicy.
- Let them cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes to allow a delightful crust to form!
With these tips, you’ll serve up burgers that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Enjoy your cooking!
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 American cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time making the baconnaise sauce, caramelizing the onions, and cooking the burgers. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until nicely blended. Once done, set the sauce aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Onions:
Take a skillet and add a small amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they turn caramelized and a beautiful golden brown—this should take about 10-15 minutes. Once caramelized, remove them from the heat and keep them aside.
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Now, it’s time to cook those delicious burgers! Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. While it’s heating, divide the ground beef into equal portions—aim for about 4 ounces each. Form these into loose balls without pressing them too tightly.
When the skillet is hot, place a beef ball in it and immediately smash it down using a heavy spatula or burger press to flatten it. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper on top! Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms. Then, flip the burger over and place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Toast the Buns:
In a separate skillet or on the grill, lightly toast the sesame seed buns until they turn golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put everything together! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and spread a generous amount of the baconnaise sauce on it. Place a cooked smash burger on top, add a spoonful of the caramelized onions, and finish with the top half of the bun. Yum!
6. Serve:
Serve your amazing smash burgers immediately with your favorite sides—fries, salad, or whatever you love. Enjoy every bite of these tasty burgers with baconnaise sauce!
## FAQ for Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Can I Use Different Meat for the Smash Burgers?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 ground beef blend is recommended for its juiciness and flavor, you can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just bear in mind that leaner meats may require adjustments in cooking time, so be sure to check for doneness before serving!
How Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the baconnaise sauce, simply skip the bacon and add a few drops of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. You can also mix in some finely chopped sundried tomatoes or smoky seasoning to enhance the taste!
What Should I Do with Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Leftover baconnaise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great as a dip for fries or as a spread on sandwiches! Just give it a good stir before using, as ingredients may separate while stored.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a skillet over low heat before assembling your burgers to bring back their deliciously sweet flavor.
