These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor, topped off with a special baconnaise sauce that adds a creamy, smoky touch. Quick to make, they’re perfect for any night!
Honestly, who can resist that crispy, caramelized edge on the patties? I love serving them with a side of fries—it’s a match made in burger heaven! 🍔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using an 80/20 blend for this recipe since it balances flavor and juiciness perfectly. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 85/15, but be mindful that it may lack some richness.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic burger experience. If you’re looking for a change, feel free to use cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor!
Buns: Sesame seed buns are great, but you can switch them up with brioche or any other soft burger bun. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the toppings!
Baconnaise Sauce: Bacon bits bring a fun crunch. If you want a vegetarian option, try using smoked paprika or liquid smoke instead of bacon. You can even use Greek yogurt in place of mayo for a healthier twist.
How Do You Create Perfectly Smashed Burgers?
The key to delicious smash burgers lies in how you smash them. It helps achieve that crispy edge that everyone loves. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated on high. A hot surface is crucial for the perfect sear!
- Form your ground beef into loose balls. For a consistent cook, weigh them out—each should be about 4 ounces.
- Place the ball in the center of the hot skillet and use a flat spatula to smash it down firmly, ensuring it’s about ½ inch thick.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper right after smashing for optimal flavor.
- Finally, cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy before flipping. Add the cheese right after you flip for the best melt!
Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Cooking oil, for frying
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend roughly 40 minutes enjoying the process of making these delicious smash burgers with baconnaise sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crispy bacon bits, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning, then mix everything together until it’s well combined. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to chill until you’re ready to assemble the burgers.
2. Cook the Onions:
Next, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little cooking oil. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and let them sauté for about 10-15 minutes. Stir them occasionally until they turn golden brown and caramelized. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside for later.
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Now, it’s time for the meat! Increase the heat on your skillet to high. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, each weighing about 4 ounces. Once the skillet is hot, place a ball of beef onto it. Using a flat spatula, smash it down firmly to create a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy. Flip the patty over and immediately add a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey!
4. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, take the sesame seed buns and lightly oil the cut sides. Place them cut-side-down on the skillet to toast until they are golden brown—this adds a nice crunch!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put it all together! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on it. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, followed by the caramelized onions. Finally, add the top half of the bun to finish things off.
6. Serve:
Serve your smash burgers immediately while they’re hot. If you invite friends over, you might want to put some extra baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! However, since turkey is leaner, consider using a mix that includes dark meat for added flavor. You may also want to increase the seasoning slightly to enhance the taste.
How to Store Leftover Bacon Sauce?
Store any leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want a thicker consistency when using later, consider mixing in a little mayonnaise just before serving.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese melts beautifully, you can use any cheese you like. For a sharper flavor, try cheddar or pepper jack. Just ensure it melts well by placing it on the patty right after flipping it.
How to Reheat Leftover Burgers?
To reheat leftover burgers, place them on a skillet over medium heat. Cover them with a lid for a few minutes to help retain moisture and ensure the cheese melts again. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be sure to wrap them in a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out.
