Get ready for some juicy smash burgers topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce! These little burgers are fun to make and packed with big flavor. Grilling is always a great way to have a blast!
Now, let’s be honest—who could resist bacon in a sauce? I always end up slathering a little extra on my burger. It’s like adding a flavor party to your meal! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) gives your burgers that juicy feel. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but these might be a bit leaner, so be careful not to overcook them.
Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice flavor, but you can swap in brioche, whole wheat, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb choice. Whatever you pick, toasting the buns will enhance their texture and taste!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is deliciously melty, but if you’re a fan of stronger flavors, try pepper jack or Gruyère. For a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Baconnaise Sauce: This sauce is a star! If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For added kick, mix in a bit of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Smash Burger?
The key to a great smash burger is all in the cooking technique. The “smash” creates that beautiful crust, bringing out the beef’s flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat; it should be hot enough to sear.
- When you’re ready, place the beef balls in the skillet and smash them down quickly but gently. This will help lock in juices.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing for the best flavor.
- Let them cook without moving them around to develop a nice crust, about 2-3 minutes on the first side.
- For perfect cheese melting, cover the skillet briefly after flipping the burgers to trap heat.
With these tips, you’ll get juicy, crispy smash burgers everyone will love!
Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns, preferably sesame seed
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- Leafy romaine or iceberg lettuce, for topping
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 strips of cooked bacon, chopped finely
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, for a total time of around 30 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes making the baconnaise sauce and then cooking up the juicy smash burgers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. Once ready, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the burgers.
2. Shape the Burgers:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions—each should be about 4 ounces. Gently form these into loose balls. Make sure not to press them too tightly; we want them to stay soft and juicy.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. When it’s nice and hot, place the beef balls onto the skillet and immediately smash each one down with a heavy spatula or burger press. You want them to be about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Add Cheese:
Let the burgers cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until a nice crust forms on the bottom. Flip the burgers carefully, and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, split open the hamburger buns and lightly toast them. You can do this in another pan or even in the oven until they are pleasantly golden brown.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place a leafy piece of lettuce, then add the cheesy smash burger on top. Drizzle a generous amount of baconnaise sauce over the burger and finish with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Enjoy your delicious smash burgers right away! If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve with additional baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. These burgers are bursting with flavor and sure to satisfy your cravings!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or lamb, but keep in mind that these meats may be leaner than beef. If using a leaner option, consider adding a touch of olive oil to maintain juiciness, especially when forming the patties.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the baconnaise sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the patties, you can form them and place them on a plate, covered with plastic wrap, and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. It’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. Alternatively, you can pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat, but the skillet method keeps them from getting soggy.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Without Mayonnaise?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It will give a similar creamy texture with a tangy flavor. Feel free to adjust the other ingredients to taste, especially the seasoning, as Greek yogurt can sometimes be less rich than traditional mayonnaise.
