Get ready for juicy smash burgers topped with a creamy baconnaise sauce that will have your taste buds dancing! These burgers are quick to make and pack a punch of flavor!
Honestly, that baconnaise sauce is like magic on the burger! I love whipping these up for a quick dinner—pair them with some crispy fries, and you’re set for a fun meal! 🍔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10, but keep in mind it might be less juicy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter burger.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to swap it with American, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese brings its own unique taste!
Buns: Sesame-seed buns add a nice crunch, but any burger bun works. Try whole wheat for a healthier choice, or opt for lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Baconnaise Sauce: If you want to skip the bacon, use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor. You can also add some chopped green onions for a fresh twist!
How Do I Properly Cook Smash Burgers for the Best Flavor?
One of the keys to smash burgers is getting that delicious crispy crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle; it should be preheated to medium-high heat.
- Form the ground beef into loose balls without packing them tightly. This keeps them tender.
- When smashing the patties, apply enough pressure to create a thin patty that cooks quickly.
- Season them well with salt and pepper right after smashing. This enhances the crust.
- Don’t flip the burgers too soon! Wait for 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms before flipping.
With these tips, your burgers will be juicy and full of flavor every time!
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 of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably sesame-seed)
- 4 leaves of lettuce
- Sliced pickles (optional)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 2-3 slices)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. Before you know it, you’ll have delicious smash burgers ready in just about 25 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Let’s start with the baconnaise sauce! In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s all well combined and creamy. Set the sauce aside while you work on the burgers.
2. Prepare the Meat:
Next, grab that ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, roughly 4 ounces each. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball. Remember, don’t overwork the meat—just keep it light and fluffy!
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Place the beef balls onto the skillet, and here’s the fun part: smash each ball flat using a spatula or a burger press to make a patty. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Cook until a crust forms, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add Cheese:
Once the underside is nicely browned, flip the patties carefully. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese has melted into gooey perfection.
5. Toast the Buns:
While your patties are sizzling away, split the hamburger buns in half and toast them in a separate pan or on the grill until they turn golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s burger time! On the bottom half of each toasted bun, lay down a fresh lettuce leaf. Then, add a cheesy smash burger patty on top. Drizzle that creamy baconnaise sauce over the patty and add pickles if you like. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve your delicious smash burgers hot and fresh. Enjoy every bite of your homemade meal—you’ve earned it!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat for These Burgers?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 blend of ground beef provides the best flavor and juiciness, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the meat you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise for the Baconnaise Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try using avocado or even silken tofu blended until smooth. Just adjust the seasonings to your taste as the flavors may differ!
How Can I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store any leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It pairs great with other dishes, so feel free to use it as a dip or spread! Just mix it well before using, as it may separate over time.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baconnaise sauce a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your burgers. This also allows the flavors to meld together nicely!
