These smash burgers are a real treat! They have a crispy outside and a juicy inside, topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce that adds a delicious twist. Just imagine biting into all that flavor!
Honestly, the baconnaise sauce is my favorite part. It’s so tasty, I even use it on fries! Make sure to grab some napkins because things might get a little messy—but that’s half the fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the perfect mix of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try 85/15 or even ground turkey for a lighter burger. Just note, the texture will be different!
Burger Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice crunch and flavor. If those aren’t available, any sturdy bun, like brioche or whole wheat, will also work. Just make sure they can hold up to all the toppings!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you want a creamier option, try American or provolone cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, choose a nut-based cheese but expect a different overall taste.
Baconnaise Sauce: This sauce is a game-changer! You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo for a healthier twist, or use vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based option. Bacon bits can be replaced with finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash Burger?
The key to a great smash burger is the cooking technique. You want a crispy crust without overworking the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot griddle or skillet to get that lovely sear.
- Form ground beef into loose balls, about 4 ounces each, without packing them too tightly.
- Once you put the beef on the cooking surface, immediately smash down hard with your spatula. This helps caramelize the meat for extra flavor.
- Season generously with salt and pepper right after smashing for the best flavor.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes before flipping to keep that crust intact. Add cheese right after flipping to let it melt while the burger finishes cooking.
With these tips, you’ll serve up smash burgers that everyone will love! 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 burger buns (preferably sesame seed)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- Optional: pickles, caramelized onions, or other toppings of choice
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon bacon grease (optional, for added flavor)
- 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 to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. You’ll whip up the baconnaise sauce, form and cook the burgers, and then assemble everything. Quick and tasty for a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, and optional bacon grease if you want extra flavor. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well incorporated. Set this delicious sauce aside for later!
2. Forming and Cooking the Burgers:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently shape the portions into balls without overworking the meat—this keeps the burgers juicy. Now, preheat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil to prevent sticking.
Once the griddle is hot, place the beef balls on it and immediately smash each one down with a spatula to form thin patties. Season them with a little salt and pepper. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms on one side. Flip the burgers, placing a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melty and delicious.
3. Assembling the Burgers:
While your burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns lightly on the griddle until they’re golden brown. To assemble, take the bottom half of each bun and place a spoonful of shredded lettuce on it. Put the cheese-topped smash burger on top of the lettuce. Drizzle a generous amount of your baconnaise sauce over the burger, and feel free to add any optional toppings like pickles or caramelized onions. Finally, place the top half of the bun over everything.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Your tasty smash burgers are ready! Serve them immediately alongside fries or your favorite sides, and dig in to enjoy the amazing flavors of the smash burgers with baconnaise sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, but keep in mind that the burgers might be a bit drier. To help maintain moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or using a blend that includes dark meat.
How to Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baconnaise sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will even deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to use it!
What Are Some Good Toppings for Smash Burgers?
Besides the classic lettuce and bacon, you might like toppings such as sliced tomatoes, red onions, avocado, jalapeños, or even a fried egg for extra richness. Get creative with whatever you enjoy!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the assembled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, remove any cold toppings, warm the burger patties in a skillet, then reassemble with fresh toppings and enjoy!
