These smash burgers have a tasty twist! They’re juicy, grilled to perfection, and topped with a special baconnaise sauce made with crispy bacon goodness. Yum!
Whenever I make these burgers, the baconnaise is a game-changer. I mean, who doesn’t love bacon on their burger? It’s like a party in your mouth! 🎉
They’re super quick to make! I just smash the burgers on the grill and mix up that baconnaise. Perfect for a fun cookout or a weeknight treat with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer less fat, go for 90/10, but it may be less juicy. A plant-based ground beef can be a great alternative for a vegetarian option.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but if you’re looking for alternatives, try cheddar or provolone for a different flavor. Just remember that not all cheeses melt the same way!
Onions: Yellow onions are classic for caramelizing, but you can also use sweet onions if you’re looking for extra sweetness. Red onions offer a sharper taste that pairs well too.
Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice touch, but feel free to use brioche or whole wheat buns. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free options at your store.
Baconnaise Sauce: This sauce is versatile! If you don’t have bacon, try using a plant-based bacon or similar condiment for a smoky flavor. You can also adjust the spices to your liking!
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes patience, but the sweetness is worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Slice your onions evenly for consistent cooking.
- Heat a skillet to medium and add olive oil; you want enough to coat the pan.
- Add the sliced onions and stir them to coat. Cook them covered for the first 10 minutes to soften.
- After that, uncover, lower the heat slightly, and stir often. This can take 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- Don’t rush; low and slow is key for that rich flavor!
Enjoy caramelizing your onions, the sweet addition to your smash burgers!
How to Make Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp cooked bacon, chopped finely
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these delicious smash burgers will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the baconnaise sauce, about 20 minutes cooking the burgers and onions, and a few additional minutes for toasting the buns and assembling everything. It’s quick, easy, and so tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and some salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once done, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the burgers.
2. Cook the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle a bit of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them slowly. Stir them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize nicely. This should take about 15-20 minutes. When they are golden brown and soft, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
3. Shape and Cook the Burgers:
Now it’s time for the burgers! Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and roll them into loose balls, but don’t pack them too tightly. Heat a large skillet or griddle over high heat and add a little olive oil. When the skillet is hot, place one beef ball on it and carefully smash it down with a flat spatula until it’s thin. Season it with salt and pepper.
4. Add Cheese:
Cook the burger for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms on the bottom. Then, flip it over and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Let it cook for another minute or until the cheese melts. Repeat this process with the remaining burger patties.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the last burger is cooking, slice the sesame seed buns in half. Toast them in the skillet (you can use the same one if there’s space!) or in a toaster until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
To put your smash burgers together, take the bottom half of each toasted bun and spread a generous tablespoon of baconnaise sauce on it. Next, add the smash burger with melted cheese on top, followed by some caramelized onions. Finally, place the top half of the bun on each burger.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smash burgers immediately while they’re hot and delicious! Feel free to offer some additional baconnaise on the side for dipping if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Meats for the Burgers?
Yes! While this recipe is great with ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so ensure that the meat is cooked through, especially for poultry.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Seed Buns?
No worries! You can use any type of burger bun you have on hand—like whole wheat, brioche, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just make sure to toast them for that delicious crunch!
How Should I Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store any leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It pairs well with sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dipping sauce for fries!
Can I Make the Baconnaise Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baconnaise sauce a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to assemble your burgers!
