These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce, they are an exciting twist on the classic burger that everyone will love.
Making these burgers is a breeze! Just flatten the patties on a hot grill and watch them sizzle. Trust me, once you taste that baconnaise, you might want to put it on everything! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for juicy burgers, as it has a good fat content. If you’re looking for leaner options, try using ground turkey or chicken, but they may cook faster and need careful seasoning.
Cheddar Cheese: Classic choice! If you want to mix it up, you can use American cheese for that melty texture or even pepper jack for some heat. Cheese alternatives like vegan cheese also work well if you’re avoiding dairy.
Sesame Seed Burger Buns: I love the crunch of sesame on my burgers. If you can’t find these, any sturdy bun works, like brioche or whole wheat. For a gluten-free option, try lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns.
Bacon: Crispy bacon brings in fantastic flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier version, try turkey bacon or even smoked tempeh for a vegetarian alternative. You can always omit the bacon altogether if you prefer.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Burgers?
The key to achieving that perfect smash burger is all about the cooking technique. Once your skillet or griddle is hot, ensure you smash the meat ball firmly, creating a nice surface area for browning.
- Shape the beef gently into balls to avoid tough burgers, about 4 oz each.
- Preheat your griddle or skillet on medium-high heat until hot. Test by flicking water on it—if it sizzles, you’re ready!
- Smash each ball with a spatula, applying firm pressure for even cooking and texture.
- Season the patties after smashing, then let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes to form a good crust before flipping.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Lettuce leaves, for garnish
- Cooked bacon pieces, for topping
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have mouth-watering smash burgers ready to devour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Begin by making the baconnaise sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined and smooth. Easy peasy! Set this tasty sauce aside.
2. Form the Burgers:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently shape them into balls—be careful not to overwork the meat as you want them to stay tender!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat up a flat griddle or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place your meatballs on the griddle. Using a spatula, flatten each ball into a thin patty. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2 minutes until the edges get nice and crispy.
4. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the cheese! Carefully flip the patties and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each burger. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking. Yum!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
While the burgers are cooking, toast your sesame seed burger buns on the griddle for about a minute until they’re warm. Start assembling your burgers by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, then add the cheesy smash burger. Top it off with crispy bacon pieces, and generously drizzle with that tasty baconnaise sauce.
6. Serve:
Finally, cap off your creation with the top bun and serve immediately. Dive into your delicious smash burger, savoring the gooey, flavorful combination of burger, bacon, and baconnaise sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Alternative Meats for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly. Make sure to season well to enhance the flavor, as these meats can be milder than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for plant-based burger patties or even portobello mushrooms for a hearty taste. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the product instructions!
What Should I Do with Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Leftover baconnaise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great as a dip for veggies or fries or as a spread on sandwiches. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate when stored.
Can I Freeze the Burgers?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked burger patties! Separate them with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 3 months. To cook, just thaw in the fridge overnight before smashing and grilling as instructed.
