These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to the crispy edges and tender middle. The special baconnaise sauce adds a creamy, smoky kick that you’ll love!
Making these burgers is super fun, and flipping them gives a great sizzle. I always pair them with crispy fries, and let’s be honest, who can resist that baconnaise? Yum! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers, balancing flavor and fat. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but they won’t be as juicy. I recommend sticking with beef if you want that classic burger taste.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, providing that classic burger topping. If you’re not a fan, try cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese instead. Just remember, different cheeses will alter the flavor a bit, so choose what you love!
Baconnaise Sauce: The combination of mayonnaise and bacon is a winner! If you want a vegetarian version, you can use bacon bits or even liquid smoke for flavor without the meat. I love adding a touch of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Sesame Seed Burger Buns: These are classic for smash burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or lettuce wraps work great. You could also use pretzel buns for a fun twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust on Smash Burgers?
The secret to a great smash burger is all in the technique! Start by preheating your griddle or skillet until it’s really hot. This high heat helps create that beautiful crust on the patty.
- Form loose balls with the beef without pressing too hard.
- When you place the ball on the hot surface, smash it down firmly. This encourages Maillard reaction for that delicious sear.
- Cook without moving the patty for 2-3 minutes. You’ll know when it’s ready to flip by checking for a nice brown crust.
- Season the top right before flipping to boost flavor.
With these tips, you’ll achieve a delightful burger that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
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 black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Lettuce leaves, for garnish
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4-6 pieces)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the baconnaise sauce and get everything ready. Cooking the burgers takes another 10-15 minutes. Altogether, plan for around 30 minutes to create these scrumptious smash burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to let the flavors mix together while you work on the burgers.
2. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Heat a flat griddle or cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s super hot. While it warms up, divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls (about 4 ounces each). Be careful not to knead or pack the meat too tightly. Once the skillet is ready, place each ball on it and smash it down firmly with a heavy spatula or a burger press to flatten into a patty. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms on the bottom. Season the tops with salt and pepper before flipping. After flipping, quickly place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts beautifully.
3. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, take your sesame seed buns and lightly toast them on the griddle for a minute or two until they turn a lovely golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to build your burgers! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and add a crisp lettuce leaf. Next, place one of your juicy smash burgers with melted cheese on top. Drizzle a generous amount of the baconnaise sauce over the burger so it drips down the sides. Finally, add the top half of the bun, and your burger is ready!
5. Serve:
Serve the smash burgers immediately while they’re hot! Feel free to have some extra baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef Instead?
While you can use lean ground beef, I recommend sticking with an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you do opt for lean beef, be sure to monitor cooking time closely to prevent the patties from drying out!
What If I Don’t Have Bacon for the Baconnaise Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute the crumbled bacon with cooked and crumbled sausage or even use a vegan bacon alternative for a non-meat option. Just make sure to mix it well into the mayonnaise for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Leftover baconnaise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might separate slightly after sitting.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baconnaise sauce a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. This will actually enhance the flavors even more. Just remember to stir it well before serving!
