These smash burgers are super juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with a fun baconnaise sauce, they take your burger game to the next level. What’s not to love about crispy edges?
Every bite is a tasty treat that will make you smile. I like to serve them with fries and a side salad for a fun, casual meal with friends or family. It’s easy and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 works well too, but it might be less juicy. For those preferring plant-based options, try using a meat substitute like lentils or a veggie burger.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a great sharpness, but feel free to swap it out for any meltable cheese like American or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You could also go dairy-free with a plant-based cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.
Baconnaise Sauce: If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, plain yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt can be a good substitute for a lighter dressing. For a smoky flavor, add a bit of liquid smoke to mayo instead of bacon.
Onions: Sweet onions are fantastic for caramelizing, but yellow onions are a great alternative too. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip caramelizing and just sautĂ© them for a few minutes until they soften.
How Do You Get Perfectly Smashed Burgers?
Smashed burgers are all about that crust, which adds great flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your griddle or skillet until it’s hot—really hot! A high temperature is key for that crust.
- Divide the ground beef into equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll them into balls, but don’t overwork the meat.
- Place the balls on the hot surface, and with a spatula, press down firmly to flatten them. Aim for about half an inch thick.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing; this enhances the flavor as they cook.
- Don’t flip too soon! Wait for about 2-3 minutes to let a crust form before flipping.
These techniques will help you achieve that delicious, crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy. 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 for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- Olive oil, for cooking
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 strips cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend 10 minutes making the baconnaise sauce and caramelizing the onions, while the burgers cook up within 15 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal that packs a punch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended. Pop it into the fridge while you get everything else ready; this helps the flavors meld together.
2. Cook the Onions:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a dash of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and sauté them until they soften and turn a beautiful, caramel color—this should take around 10-15 minutes. Once they’re ready, remove them from the heat and set aside.
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Now, preheat your griddle or skillet over high heat. Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Place the balls on the hot surface and, using a sturdy spatula, smash them down to form thin patties. Season each patty generously with salt and pepper.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
After about 2-3 minutes, check your burgers; they should have developed a nice crust. Flip each patty over and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, grab another skillet and lightly toast the sesame seed buns until they are golden brown and warm. This will add a nice crunch to each bite!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Let’s put it all together! On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous amount of your baconnaise sauce. Add the smash burger patty with melted cheese on top, then pile on some of the caramelized onions. Finish with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve your delicious smash burgers right away while they’re hot! If you like, you can put some extra baconnaise sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Yes! While ground beef (80/20) is recommended for its flavor and juiciness, you can substitute with ground turkey or lean ground beef. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. If using turkey, consider adding a little olive oil to help with moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No worries! You can use yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard as a substitute. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, a bit of barbecue sauce can also add a nice twist to the baconnaise sauce.
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 the ingredients may settle over time.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap the burgers tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, remove the patty from the bun and warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then reassemble with fresh toppings!
