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This Smash Burger recipe with housemade Baconnaise sauce is every bit as flavorful as it sounds. You will bite into juicy beef patties with a shattering crust, crispy bacon, and a creamy rich sauce that brings everything together. This has quickly become my top request for family cookouts and casual Friday nights.
The first time I made this style of burger at home was for a backyard movie night with friends and it was the one thing everyone asked the recipe for by the end of the evening. I have not bought store burgers since
Ingredients
- Fresh ground beef: look for a blend with at least fifteen percent fat for maximum juiciness
- Salt: enhances beef flavor without overpowering
- Ground black pepper: brings warmth and depth
- Bacon: select thick slices for a crunchier finish
- Mayonnaise: base for the Baconnaise sauce with a creamy texture
- Ketchup: for a touch of sweetness in the sauce
- Mustard: adds sharpness and zip to the Baconnaise
- Soft hamburger buns: choose freshly baked or brioche for best results
- Cheese slices (optional): I go for American or sharp cheddar for ideal melting
- Diced onions (optional): pick the freshest and crispest ones
- Pickles for serving (optional): adds brightness and crunch
When buying ingredients get fresh ground beef the same day if possible and look for bacon with just a slight marbled look for the best fat to meat ratio
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cooking Surface:
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for at least five minutes This helps form a flavorful crust on the beef
- Shape and Season the Beef:
- Divide the ground beef into four portions and gently roll each into a ball Sprinkle each ball evenly with salt and black pepper for balanced seasoning
- Smash the Patties:
- Place the seasoned beef balls on the hot cooking surface Use a metal spatula or heavy press to flatten each one into a thin patty Press hard and fast to lock in the juices
- Brown the First Side:
- Let the patties cook undisturbed for at least two to three minutes until the edges look brown and crispy This forms the signature crust
- Flip and Cook Through:
- Carefully flip each patty once Let the second side cook for another one to two minutes so it is fully cooked but still juicy
- Fry the Bacon:
- As the patties cook use a separate pan to fry bacon strips until golden and crisp Lay them on paper towels to drain
- Make the Baconnaise:
- In a small bowl stir together mayonnaise ketchup and mustard Taste as you go and adjust for your preferred flavor balance
- Toast the Buns:
- Wipe out the burger skillet or use a clean pan and toast each bun until they are just golden and warm
- Melt the Cheese:
- If you like add a slice of cheese to each hot patty right after flipping Allow it to melt fully before assembling
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spread the Baconnaise generously on the bottom bun Stack with the hot patty crispy bacon onions and pickles
- Finish and Serve:
- Close each burger with a top bun and serve hot alongside your favorite sides
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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is that crisp edge you get from smashing the beef hot and fast Nothing takes me back to old fashioned diners with my grandpa like that sound and aroma as the crust forms on the griddle
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat patties gently in a hot pan to keep them juicy and restore the crust I wrap the burger loosely in foil to keep moisture in during reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take or swap in plant based patties for a vegetarian version If you want to amp up the sauce flavor a spoonful of Worcestershire or a pinch of cayenne goes a long way
Serving Suggestions
Serve your smash burgers with crispy fries onion rings or even a tangy coleslaw For an at home burger night set out lettuce tomato avocado and extra pickles so everyone can build their own custom masterpiece
A Little Food History
The smash burger style began as a way for cooks to get a deeply browned flavorful crust quickly using thin patties and very high heat This technique brings out the pure taste of beef and gives every bite its crunch and juiciness
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve the perfect sear on the patties?
Use a hot skillet or griddle and firmly smash the beef balls to create a thin patty. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is browned and crusty.
- → What is baconnaise and how do I prepare it?
Baconnaise is a sauce made by blending mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. For extra depth, add bacon drippings or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- → Can cheese be added to these burgers?
Yes, place a cheese slice on each patty after flipping, allowing it to melt before assembling the burgers.
- → What are some recommended topping options?
Try diced onions, pickles, crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or creamy avocado for variety and added flavor.
- → How can I make a lighter version?
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken while following the same smashing and cooking method.
- → Any tips for extra crispy bacon?
Fry the bacon in a cold pan and gradually increase heat, allowing more fat to render and resulting in maximum crispiness.