These smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! With crispy edges and a tasty baconnaise sauce, they’re a treat for burger lovers. Perfect for grilling season!
Making these burgers is so much fun! I love watching them sizzle and get that perfect crust. And that baconnaise? It’s like a hug in a sauce! You’ll want to slap it on everything! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy burgers because the fat content keeps them moist. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use a 90/10 blend, but the burgers might be a bit drier.
Onion: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness when caramelized, but if you prefer a sharper taste, red onions work well too. You can even skip them if you’re not an onion fan!
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic burger experience. Cheddar is a great alternative if you want a more robust flavor. Feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some kick!
Baconnaise Sauce: If you don’t have bacon grease, crumbled bacon adds nice texture. For a healthier twist, plain Greek yogurt can substitute mayonnaise, but it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get My Burgers Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that ideal burger takes attention to detail. The key is in the smashing and cooking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a hot griddle or skillet; this ensures a nice crust. Preheating is crucial!
- Form loose balls of ground beef. Avoid compressing them too tightly so they remain juicy.
- When smashing, apply even pressure. Aim for a footprint of around 4 inches wide; it helps with even cooking.
- Allow the burgers to cook without moving them too much. Flip when you see juices start to pool on the uncooked side.
- Finally, when you add cheese, cover the pan with a lid for a minute. This traps steam and helps the cheese melt perfectly!
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- Oil for cooking
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons bacon grease (or crumbled bacon for texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need roughly 45 minutes to prepare these satisfying smash burgers. It’s a fun and tasty project, perfect for a family dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, bacon grease (or crumbled bacon), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and smooth. Set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Onions:
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Toss in the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and caramelized. This will take about 10-15 minutes—just be patient, they’ll become deliciously sweet! Once done, set the onions aside.
3. Form the Burgers:
Now it’s time to prepare the burger patties. Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball—don’t press down too much, you want them to stay juicy.
4. Smash the Burgers:
Heat a flat griddle or a large skillet over high heat and add a bit of oil. Once it’s hot, place the meat balls on the cooking surface. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down into a flat patty. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until you see a nice crust forming on the bottom. Carefully flip each patty over, and add a slice of cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
To build your burger, start by spreading a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each sesame seed bun. Place the cheesy burger patty on top of the sauce, followed by a nice helping of the caramelized onions. Finally, cap it off with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Your delicious smash burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot, and feel free to offer extra baconnaise sauce on the side for some added flavor. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for the Burgers?
While you can use leaner ground beef, such as 90/10, your burgers may be less juicy and flavorful. For the best results, stick with an 80/20 blend, which provides that perfect balance of fat for a succulent burger. If you’re concerned about fat, consider using a mix and adding extra seasonings for flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon Grease in the Baconnaise Sauce?
If you don’t have bacon grease, you can use an equal amount of olive oil or any oil you have on hand. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke. If you’re looking for texture, crumbled bacon is a great alternative that adds both flavor and crunch!
How Do I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store any leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using, as separation may occur. It’s great on sandwiches or as a dip for veggies!
Can I Prep the Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through before assembling your burgers. This will save you time on cooking day!
