These smash burgers are juicy and full of flavor, topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce that adds a tasty twist. Each bite is a delightful treat, perfect for any burger lover!
Who can resist a burger with baconnaise? I always make a little extra sauce—it’s great for dipping fries! 🍟 Trust me, these burgers will become a favorite in no time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is best for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware these might not be as juicy, so adding a bit of oil can help.
Hamburger Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice touch. If you can’t find them, you can use whole wheat or brioche buns for a different flavor. Gluten-free buns are also a great alternative for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to switch it up! American or pepper jack cheese also melt nicely. If you’re plant-based, vegan cheese options can work too.
Baconnaise Sauce: Instead of mayonnaise, you could use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If bacon isn’t your choice, try smoked paprika for a hickory flavor. It won’t replicate the texture but will add a nice kick!
How Do You Get a Perfect Crust on Your Smash Burgers?
The key to a great smash burger lies in how you cook it. Don’t rush the process! Start by shaping your ground beef into balls and keep your hands light. You’ll want a hot skillet to get that delicious crust.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high and make sure it’s really hot.
- Place the beef balls on the skillet. Use a sturdy spatula to press down hard. This makes contact with the heat and gives your burger that golden crust.
- Let it be! Avoid flipping too early; cook for about 2-3 minutes before checking.
Take your time flipping, then immediately add cheese as it helps melt into the beef—delicious!
Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a dash of hot sauce for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend a little time preparing the Baconnaise sauce, cooking the burgers, toasting the buns, and assembling everything together. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you like a little kick, add a dash of hot sauce! Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth, then set the bowl aside.
2. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Next, heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, divide the ground beef into four equal portions, making balls that weigh about 4 ounces each. Try not to overwork the meat—it’ll be juicier that way!
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls onto it and use a spatula to smash them down into flat patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Season the tops generously with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, until you see a nice crust forming on the bottom. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one so it melts for about a minute.
3. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, you can toast the sesame seed buns. You can do this on another pan or pop them in the oven until they’re golden and slightly crispy. This step adds an extra layer of deliciousness!
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with the bottom half of each toasted bun and add a layer of shredded lettuce. Then, place the juicy, cheesy smash burger on top of the lettuce. Drizzle a good amount of the Baconnaise sauce over the burger, and finally, place the top half of the bun on all that goodness.
5. Serve:
Your Smash Burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them immediately with extra Baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While you can use leaner ground beef, it’s best to stick with an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you use leaner meat, consider adding a bit of olive oil or bacon fat to retain moisture and flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the Baconnaise sauce in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For the burgers, you can pre-form the patties and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, try to reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep them juicy. The Baconnaise sauce can also be stored and used within the same time frame.
Can I Customize the Baconnaise Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other flavors, like chopped herbs (parsley or chives), or swap out the Dijon for a different mustard. For a smoky version, consider adding smoked paprika or even barbecue sauce!
