Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe

There's nothing like biting into a perfectly cooked smash burger. Juicy, crispy-edged beef patties stacked with gooey melted cheese and nestled between buttery buns are a treat for the senses. And when paired with the tangy, smoky baconnaise sauce? Absolute burger bliss.

this Recipe

This recipe came about one weekend when I was experimenting with homemade burger sauces and leftover bacon. The result was so good that it quickly became a family favorite. Now, these smash burgers are a staple for our weekend cookouts. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe irresistible.

Why You'll Love These Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce

Get ready to discover your new go-to burger recipe. These smash burgers are everything you crave in a burger but elevated with a flavor-packed sauce.

First, smash burgers are incredibly quick to cook. Thanks to their thin patties, you’ll go from stovetop to plate in under 10 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for satisfying burger cravings fast.

The crispy edges on the patties are a game-changer. By pressing the beef flat onto a hot griddle, you maximize the browning, giving you an incredible crust that’s packed with flavor.

Then there’s the baconnaise sauce. This rich, smoky, and tangy condiment made from crispy bacon and creamy mayonnaise takes the burger to a whole new level. It’s so good you’ll want to spread it on everything!

Finally, this recipe is versatile. You can customize the toppings, use your favorite cheese, or even serve the patties over a salad for a low-carb option.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these smash burgers lies in their simplicity, but each ingredient plays an important role in creating the ultimate burger experience.

Start with 80/20 ground beef. The higher fat content ensures juicy patties and contributes to that crispy crust. Avoid over-handling the beef to keep it tender.

Cheddar cheese is my go-to for meltability and flavor, but American cheese is another classic choice. If you like a more robust flavor, opt for sharp cheddar.

For the baconnaise sauce, you’ll need crispy bacon, mayonnaise, a touch of Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. This combination strikes the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and tangy.

Use potato buns for their soft, pillowy texture. They toast beautifully and hold up well to the juicy patties. If you’re feeling fancy, brioche buns are an excellent alternative.

Don’t forget about toppings! Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles add freshness and crunch, while a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper elevates the beef’s natural flavors.

A flat-top griddle or cast-iron skillet is essential for achieving the perfect crust on the patties. If you don’t have one, a heavy-bottomed frying pan works in a pinch.

How To Make These Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce

Creating the perfect smash burger is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for juicy patties with those signature crispy edges.

Start by preparing the baconnaise sauce. Cook your bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. In a small bowl, mix the bacon with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust for seasoning, then refrigerate until ready to use.

Heat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, divide your ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll them into loose balls, being careful not to pack the meat too tightly.

Once the skillet is hot, add a touch of oil to prevent sticking. Place a beef ball on the skillet and press it flat using a sturdy spatula or burger press. You want the patty to be about ¼ inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.

Flip the patties and immediately top each one with a slice of cheese. Let the cheese melt while the second side cooks, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.

Toast your buns directly on the skillet until golden brown and slightly crisp. Assemble the burgers by spreading a generous layer of baconnaise sauce on the bottom bun, adding the patty, and topping with your desired fixings. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately.

Storage Options

If you somehow have leftovers (unlikely!), these smash burgers and baconnaise sauce store well.

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispy edges.

The baconnaise sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. Stir before using to maintain its creamy consistency.

If you want to make patties ahead of time, form them into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.

Experiment with cheeses! Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while smoked Gouda brings a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the baconnaise sauce.

For a low-carb version, serve the patties wrapped in lettuce leaves instead of buns. Add extra veggies for crunch.

Don’t eat bacon? You can still make a tangy mayo sauce by skipping the bacon and adding smoked paprika for that signature smokiness.

If you want to add a gourmet twist, caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms make excellent toppings.

These smash burgers with baconnaise sauce are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or craving a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy!

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