These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! The trick is in the name—smashing down the patties gets them crispy and delicious, while the baconnaise sauce adds a tasty twist!
Honestly, who could resist a burger with baconnaise? It’s my secret weapon for a backyard cookout. Plus, these burgers are super easy to whip up, making dinner a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, 85/15 works too, but may be a bit less juicy. For a healthier option, turkey or plant-based ground meat can be used, although the flavor will change.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, creating that classic burger gooeyness. Cheddar is also great if you love sharpness; feel free to mix both. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese that melts well.
Vegetable Oil: This oil helps cook the burgers and onions. You can substitute with canola or avocado oil. If you want extra flavor, use bacon fat left over from cooking the bacon!
Sesame Seed Buns: These add a nice crunch and aroma, but any burger bun works! Try whole wheat buns or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
What’s the Best Way to Smash Burgers for the Perfect Crust?
The key to a great smash burger is the smashing technique. You want to create a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Use a heavy spatula or a burger press, and follow these tips:
- Heat your skillet until it’s really hot to get that sear.
- Place the beef balls and press down firmly to flatten them into thin patties.
- Season them immediately while they cook to enhance the flavor.
This technique brings out the beef’s natural juices and makes that crust irresistible. Don’t rush this step; let them sizzle away for a minute or so before flipping!
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices of cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes making the baconnaise sauce and caramelizing the onions, and about 20 minutes cooking the burgers. The result? Delicious smash burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed and well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then set the sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Onions:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them until they become soft and caramelized, stirring occasionally for about 10-15 minutes. Once done, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Form the Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Gently shape each portion into a ball, being careful not to compress the meat too much. This keeps them tender and juicy!
4. Smash the Burgers:
Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over high heat until shimmering. Place the beef balls in the skillet, making sure to space them apart. Then, using a heavy spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down into a patty that’s about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Cook the smashed burgers for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms on the bottom. Flip them over carefully, then place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Add some of your caramelized onions on top of the cheese. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, you can toast the sesame seed buns in the same skillet or on a separate griddle. Toast them until they turn golden brown and are nice and warm.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cheese-topped burger patties on top, followed by the top bun to complete your burger stack.
8. Serve:
Serve the burgers hot, alongside your favorite sides like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy the mouthwatering taste of your smash burgers with baconnaise sauce!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef! Just keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or bacon fat to keep the burgers juicy. Cook them the same way, but watch the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The baconnaise sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Seed Buns?
No problem! You can use any type of burger bun you prefer, such as brioche, whole wheat, or sourdough. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, even lettuce wraps work well as a great substitute!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a little splash of water and covering to steam the burgers back to juicy perfection. Reheat the buns separately to keep them nice and toasted!
