Get ready to enjoy smash burgers that are juicy and full of flavor! These little patties are pressed right on the grill for a crispy edge and tender inside, making every bite delicious.
And let’s not forget the baconnaise sauce—it’s a fun twist that adds smoky goodness to each burger! I love slathering it on and serving with crispy fries. What’s not to love? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use 85/15, but burgers may not be as juicy. Turkey or plant-based ground meat can also be used for a lighter option.
Bacon: The crumbled bacon adds a nice crunch and smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, try using bacon bits made from coconut or tempeh. For a lower-fat option, turkey bacon works too.
Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic for burgers, but any type works! Try brioche, whole wheat, or gluten-free buns if you have dietary restrictions. Just ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the juicy burger.
Baconnaise Sauce: Customize your sauce with a bit of hot sauce for heat! If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. You can also skip the bacon grease for a vegetarian-friendly option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burgers?
The key to a great smash burger is that perfect technique when cooking. The goal is to flatten the patties quickly, creating a tasty crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the meat quickly. Preheat your cast-iron skillet or griddle on medium-high heat.
- Once you place the meat in the skillet, use a sturdy spatula to press down on the beef ball gently. A quick, firm press works best.
- Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness. Don’t press for too long; 5-10 seconds is usually enough to flatten it.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing to enhance the flavor.
Remember, don’t overwork the beef when forming the balls—looseness matters for a tender burger!
Delicious Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp bacon grease (from cooked bacon)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional: pickles or onion slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the sauce and forming the patties, and the remaining 20 minutes cooking and assembling your delicious burgers. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, bacon grease, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything until it’s well combined. Then, gently fold in the crumbled bacon. Set this tasty sauce aside; it will add a wonderful flavor to your burgers!
2. Form the Patties:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently roll each portion into a ball. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this will help keep your burgers tender.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Place the beef balls onto the skillet, ensuring there’s enough space between them. Using a flat spatula, smash each ball down to about 1/2 inch thick. Season the tops with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Cook the burgers for about 2-3 minutes, or until a nice crust forms on the underside. Flip each burger gently and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, take your burger buns and lightly toast them. You can do this in the same skillet after removing the burgers, or in a toaster for a crisp texture.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
To assemble, start with the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a piece of lettuce on it, followed by the cheesy burger patty. Drizzle generously with your homemade Baconnaise sauce, and sprinkle a bit more crumbled bacon on top if you’d like. Then, add any extra toppings like pickles or onions before placing the top bun on gently.
7. Serve:
Your smash burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot right away for the best flavor and texture. Dig in and savor every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Meat for the Burgers?
Absolutely! While ground beef (80/20) is recommended for its flavor and juiciness, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times and flavors will vary, so adjust accordingly!
How Can I Make a Lighter Version of the Baconnaise Sauce?
For a lighter version, you can substitute regular mayonnaise with a low-fat or Greek yogurt alternative. This will reduce the calorie count while still providing a creamy texture. You can also add a bit of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, separate the patties from the assembled burgers. Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and reassemble with fresh toppings when ready to eat.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the Baconnaise sauce up to 3 days in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
