These smash burgers are a fun twist on a classic! They’re juicy, crispy, and topped with a tasty baconnaise sauce that makes everything better. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love bacon? This special sauce gives it a creamy finish that’s hard to resist. I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite of these burgers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The best choice is an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 still works, but keep in mind it may be a bit drier. Vegetarian crumbles or black bean patties are great meatless alternatives!
Bacon: For the baconnaise sauce, cooked bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor. You could swap it with turkey bacon for a lighter option or use bacon bits for convenience. If you’re vegan, try using coconut bacon for a similar taste!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise creates a creamy base for the baconnaise. If you’re watching calories, use low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Vegans can use a plant-based mayo as a suitable substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to use American cheese for a classic touch. Vegan cheese can also be a good choice for plant-based burgers.
Sesame Seed Buns: These add a nice crunch and flavor. However, if you want to go gluten-free, look for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
How Do You Cook Smash Burgers for Maximum Flavor?
Cooking smash burgers is an art that relies on technique for that crispy edge and juicy center. Here’s how to master it:
- Use high heat! This helps form that delicious crust. A cast iron skillet or flat-top griddle works best.
- When shaping the beef, handle it gently. Overworking can make them tough.
- The smashing: Once the ball is in the pan, firmly press it down with a spatula until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This increases surface area for browning.
- Wait! Don’t flip too soon. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes before flipping. You want a beautiful golden crust.
And remember, adding cheese right after flipping helps it melt perfectly on the hot patty! Enjoy crafting your smash burgers!
Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This smash burger recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the baconnaise sauce and cooking the onions, and another 15 minutes to cook the burgers and assemble everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Baconnaise Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, take the mayonnaise and add the chopped bacon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Set this tasty sauce aside so the flavors can blend together while you cook the burgers.
2. Cook the Onions:
Grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Drizzle a bit of vegetable oil in the pan. Once it’s hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Sauté the onions gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. When they’re done, take them out of the skillet and keep them on the side.
3. Form the Smash Burgers:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Lightly roll each portion into a ball without overworking the meat. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over them for flavor.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Turn the heat up to high for your skillet. If needed, add a little more oil. Place the beef balls into the hot skillet, leaving space in between them. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each ball into a flat patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they’re nicely browned and crispy on the bottom.
5. Add Cheese and Onions:
Now it’s time to flip the burgers! As soon as you turn them over, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and add a generous amount of the caramelized onions on top of the cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, pop the sesame seed buns on another pan or griddle to toast them until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your burgers!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s assembly time! Take the bottom halves of the toasted buns and spread a good amount of the baconnaise sauce on each. Place the cheeseburger with the melty cheese and onions right on top, then finish off with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your smash burgers are ready to be served! Enjoy them hot with your favorite sides like crispy fries or a refreshing salad. Dive into the delicious flavors and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Burgers?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different meats may require slight adjustments in cooking time and seasoning to achieve the best flavor and texture.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat can work as substitutes. The smokiness adds flavor, but you can still create a tasty sauce without it!
How to Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Any leftover baconnaise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to stir well before using it again, as some ingredients may settle. It’s great as a dip or spread for other sandwiches too!
Can I Make the Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the burger patties in advance! Shape them and store them separated by parchment paper in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and freshness!
