These smash burgers are juicy, crispy, and packed with flavor. Topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce, they are a treat for your taste buds!
Honestly, the baconnaise takes these burgers to a whole new level. Perfect for a backyard BBQ! I always make extra because everyone wants seconds (or thirds!). 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for smash burgers because the fat content keeps them juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, a 90/10 blend works, but the burger might be drier. Ground turkey or chicken is a lighter substitute, although the flavor will differ.
Onion: I recommend using yellow onions for their naturally sweet flavor when caramelized. Red onions can also work, but they’ll add a sharper taste. If you’re avoiding onions altogether, consider using sautéed mushrooms for a savory touch.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully and creates that gooey burger experience. Cheddar is a great alternative if you prefer a stronger flavor. You can also try pepper jack for a little heat or omit cheese for a dairy-free option.
Baconnaise Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base for this sauce, but Greek yogurt makes a lighter substitute. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard will work, but it’s less tangy. For vegans, use a plant-based mayo and bacon alternatives.
How Can You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience and low heat. You want to slowly draw out the sweetness without burning them. Start by heating oil in your skillet, then add the onions and cook them on medium heat. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get that beautiful golden color.
- Keep stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- If they seem to be cooking too fast, lower the heat.
- Season lightly with salt to help them soften and draw out moisture.
These onions will add a rich, sweet flavor to your burgers.
What’s the Secret to Achieving a Great Smash on Your Burgers?
The key to a great smash burger is the cooking technique. When you form the beef into balls, don’t pack them tightly—this can lead to a tough burger. Instead, gently shape them. Once in the skillet, use a heavy spatula to press down firmly until they’re about ½ inch thick.
- Make sure your skillet is really hot to achieve that nice crust.
- Season the patties right after you smash them for maximum flavor.
- Don’t flip them too soon; let them develop a good crust, about 2-3 minutes.
This method creates both texture and flavor in each bite.
How to Make Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 strips of cooked bacon, 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 takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy some hearty smash burgers at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by mixing the baconnaise sauce! In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well blended. Once it’s mixed, pop it in the refrigerator while you work on the burgers—this helps the flavors come together nicely!
2. Form the Smash Burger Patties:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Gently roll them into loose balls—don’t overwork the meat, or your burgers might turn out tough!
3. Cook the Onions:
Grab a skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the sliced onions. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 10 to 15 minutes until they turn a wonderful caramelized golden brown. Once cooked, take them out of the skillet and keep them warm by covering them.
4. Smash the Burgers:
In the same skillet, add a little more vegetable oil if needed and crank the heat up to high. Place the beef balls in the skillet and use a spatula to press down firmly, flattening them to about 1/2 inch thick. Generously season with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until a crispy crust develops on one side.
5. Add Cheese and Onions:
Now flip the patties over! Immediately place a slice of cheese on each burger. Add a handful of your delicious caramelized onions on top of the cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid for about a minute to let the cheese melt beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, take this time to toast the sesame seed buns. You can do this in a separate skillet or on the grill until they become golden brown. This step adds a nice crunch!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s assembly time! Spread a generous scoop of that tasty baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a burger patty with its melted cheese and onions on top, then crown it with the top bun. Yum!
8. Serve:
Your smash burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot with your favorite sides, like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef for the Smash Burgers?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that they are leaner options and may result in drier burgers. To help retain moisture, consider adding a little olive oil or a splash of broth to the meat mixture before forming your patties. Make sure to cook them thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The baconnaise sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help enhance the flavors even more. Just give it a good stir before using it!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
Store any leftover smash burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or use a microwave. To maintain the bun’s texture, consider toasting them lightly before serving again.
Can I Substitute the Cheese for a Dairy-Free Option?
Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free cheese alternative or even skip the cheese altogether if you prefer. Just be sure it melts well or look for brands specifically designed to melt like regular cheese for the best results!
