There's something magical about the sizzle of a smash burger hitting a hot griddle. This recipe elevates the classic with a tangy, smoky baconnaise sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Crispy edges, juicy interiors, and a creamy sauce that packs a punch make these burgers unforgettable.
I discovered this gem during a summer BBQ when I wanted to combine my love for smoky bacon and perfectly seared burgers. It’s now a family staple, perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your table.
Why You'll Love This Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Get ready to elevate your burger game with this simple, mouthwatering recipe. These smash burgers are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist.
First, these burgers are incredibly easy to make. With just a few key ingredients and some hot cooking action, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something indulgent.
The crispy edges of the patties are a game-changer. Smashing the burgers creates those caramelized crusts while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. It’s the best of both worlds in every bite.
The baconnaise sauce is the star of the show. Smoky, creamy, and tangy, it adds a bold flavor that complements the rich burger perfectly. You’ll want to slather it on everything.
Finally, this recipe is highly customizable. Add your favorite toppings, experiment with different cheeses, or make mini sliders for a fun twist. Everyone can make it their own.
Ingredients Notes

This smash burger recipe relies on simple, high-quality ingredients to deliver big flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why they’re essential.
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best results. The fat content ensures a juicy burger while creating those crispy edges that make smash burgers so irresistible.
Bacon: Cooked to crispy perfection, bacon forms the base of the baconnaise sauce. You’ll also want extra for topping the burgers if you’re a bacon lover.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo is key for the sauce, providing a rich, creamy texture. It balances the smoky bacon and tangy flavors.
Burger Buns: Choose soft brioche or potato buns. Their slightly sweet, pillowy texture pairs beautifully with the savory patties.
Cheese: American cheese is classic for smash burgers because of its unbeatable melt factor, but cheddar or pepper jack works well too.
Pickles and Onions: For a fresh crunch and a hit of acidity, pickles and thinly sliced onions are essential toppings.
You’ll also need a heavy skillet or griddle to achieve the high heat required for that perfect sear.
How To Make This Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce

Making these smash burgers is quick and straightforward, but a few key techniques ensure perfect results every time.
Start by preparing your bacon. Cook slices until crisp, then crumble them finely. Reserve some bacon grease for added flavor if desired. Combine the crumbled bacon with mayonnaise, a dash of smoked paprika, and a splash of lemon juice for the baconnaise sauce. Mix well and set aside.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You want it scorching hot for that signature crust. Divide the ground beef into loosely packed balls, about 2 ounces each. Don’t overwork the meat—this keeps the burgers tender.
Place a beef ball onto the hot surface and smash it flat using a spatula. Press firmly until the patty is thin and the edges begin to fray. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy and browned.
Flip the patties, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another minute. The cheese will melt beautifully, and the burger will stay juicy.
Toast your buns on the griddle for a golden-brown finish. Spread the baconnaise sauce generously on both sides of the buns. Assemble the burgers by layering patties, bacon slices, pickles, and onions. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
The entire process takes about 20 minutes, making these burgers perfect for a quick dinner or casual party.
Storage Options
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store them.
Store cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The baconnaise sauce can be kept in a separate container for up to a week.
Reheat the patties on a hot skillet for a few minutes to restore some of their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the meat rubbery. Assemble the burgers fresh for the best results.
For the sauce, give it a quick stir before using, as the bacon bits may settle.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to customize to your taste preferences.
For a spicier kick, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the baconnaise.
Swap out the cheese for your favorite variety. Blue cheese or gouda can add a unique flavor profile.
Make sliders instead of full-sized burgers for a party-friendly option. Use smaller buns and reduce the cooking time slightly.
For a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Keep in mind that these leaner proteins may need a touch of oil to achieve the same crispy crust.
Gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps can make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners without compromising on flavor.
Feel free to experiment with toppings—grilled mushrooms, avocado slices, or even a fried egg can take these smash burgers to the next level.
Now it’s your turn to create the ultimate smash burger experience. Gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and let the sizzling magic begin!
PrintSmash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
Indulge in the best Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce, a perfect combination of juicy beef patties and a rich, tangy sauce loaded with bacon flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Griddle or Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for toasting buns)
- For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix well and refrigerate.
- Form the Beef Balls: Divide ground beef into 4 equal balls, about 4 ounces each. Do not flatten.
- Cook the Smash Burgers: Heat a griddle or skillet over high heat. Place the beef balls on the hot surface and smash them flat with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy edges form.
- Melt the Cheese: Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty during the last 30 seconds of cooking, allowing it to melt.
- Toast the Buns (Optional): Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast them on the skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread baconnaise sauce on the bottom buns, add the patties, and top with lettuce, tomato, or any desired toppings. Place the top buns on, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked cheddar or adding BBQ sauce to the burger.
- The baconnaise sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
Leave a Reply