These juicy smash burgers are packed with flavor and come with a creamy baconnaise sauce that makes every bite irresistible! They’re easy to whip up on a busy day.
Honestly, who can resist a burger with baconnaise? I always have extra sauce on the side for dipping fries, too. It’s a total game-changer for any burger night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for maximum juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they might be a bit dryer.
Burger Buns: Potato buns are soft and perfect for these burgers. However, brioche buns are also great for a slightly sweeter touch. Gluten-free buns can work too!
Bacon: For the baconnaise, I love using freshly cooked bacon for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, store-bought bacon bits can do the job, but fresh is always better.
Cheese: Cheddar is always a classic with burgers. If you’re looking to mix it up, try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or Swiss for a creamy melt.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crispy Burger Crust?
Achieving that deliciously crispy crust is all about the smash! Use a super hot skillet or griddle. Don’t be shy; smash the ball down to about ¼-inch thick for the best sear.
- Preheat your pan until it’s hot—look for a little smoke.
- Cook without moving the patty to help form that crust; 2-3 minutes should do.
- Flip gently, then let it cook for another minute or two until you hit your preferred doneness.
With these tips, your smash burgers will turn out juicy and delicious every time!
Juicy Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 burger buns (potato buns or brioche recommended)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter (for toasting buns)
- Sliced pickles, lettuce, tomato slices, and onions (optional toppings)
For the Creamy Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons cooked bacon, finely chopped (or bacon bits)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should plan for about 25-30 minutes to enjoy these delicious burgers, including assembling them with all the tasty toppings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, finely chopped cooked bacon, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic until it’s smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Pop it in the fridge while you make the burgers to let the flavors meld.
2. Form the Meat Balls:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball — handling the meat softly helps keep the burgers tender and juicy!
3. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Next, heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Make sure it gets really hot—look for it to begin smoking slightly, which will help get that nice crispy sear on your burgers.
4. Toast the Buns:
While your skillet is heating up, spread a bit of butter or oil on the cut sides of your burger buns. Place them cut-side down in a pan or on the edges of your griddle until they’re beautifully golden brown. Set the toasted buns aside.
5. Smash the Burgers:
Time to cook! Place one ball of beef on the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash it down firmly to about ¼-inch thickness. Season generously with salt and pepper. Repeat with the remaining beef balls, working in batches if necessary.
6. Cook the Patties:
Let the smashed patties cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until a nice brown crust forms. Flip the patties over, adding a slice of cheese on top if you like. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through to your preference.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous spoonful of your creamy baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the hot burger patty on top, and then layer on any additional toppings like pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, or onions. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve Immediately:
Dig in and enjoy your juicy smash burgers with extra baconnaise sauce on the side and a pile of your favorite fries or chips!
Get ready to savor every delicious bite of these smash burgers bursting with flavor!
FAQ for Juicy Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef is classic for smash burgers, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat used.
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can! The baconnaise sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, but keep in mind that they may lose some crispiness.
Can I Freeze the Patties?
Definitely! You can freeze the formed beef balls before cooking. Just wrap each ball in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking for best results!
