Thereโs nothing quite like the sizzle of a smash burger hitting a hot griddle, the irresistible aroma filling the air as the edges crisp to golden perfection. Pair that with a creamy, smoky baconnaise sauce, and youโve got a burger thatโs guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering.

This recipe became an instant favorite in my household after a backyard barbecue experiment. Itโs fast, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to makeโperfect for those nights when you want something indulgent but donโt want to spend hours in the kitchen. Letโs dive into what makes this dish so special.
Why Youโll Love This Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
Get ready to upgrade your burger game with this quick and easy recipe. These smash burgers are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a hit for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.
First, the simplicity of the smash cooking technique ensures maximum caramelization. By pressing the burgers thin onto a hot surface, you create a crispy, flavorful crust that pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy interior.
The baconnaise sauce is a showstopper. A combination of creamy mayo, smoky bacon bits, and tangy seasonings, it elevates every bite with its rich, savory flavor.
These burgers are also incredibly customizable. You can add your favorite toppings, cheeses, and even experiment with the protein if youโre not in the mood for beef.
Best of all, this recipe is fast. From start to finish, you can have these burgers ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy evenings or last-minute cravings.
Ingredients Notes
The key to these smash burgers lies in their simple, high-quality ingredients, each bringing its own unique touch to the dish.
Ground Beef: Look for ground beef with a fat content of at least 80/20. The higher fat content ensures the burgers stay juicy and flavorful as they cook. Avoid overly lean blends, which can dry out on the griddle.
Brioche Buns: Soft and slightly sweet, brioche buns are the ideal base for these burgers. Their pillowy texture complements the crisp edges of the patties without overwhelming them.
Cheese: American cheese is the classic choice for smash burgers. Its quick melting properties and creamy texture make it a fan favorite. If you prefer, cheddar or pepper jack work wonderfully too.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is the hero of the baconnaise sauce. Fry it until crisp, then crumble it finely to distribute its smoky flavor throughout the sauce.
Mayonnaise: Choose a high-quality mayo as the base for your baconnaise. Its creamy texture ties the other ingredients together beautifully.
Youโll also need a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle to achieve the perfect smash and sear for the patties.
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Crafting these mouthwatering smash burgers is as simple as it is satisfying. Letโs break it down step by step.
Start by preparing the baconnaise sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely crumbled bacon, a splash of lemon juice, a pinch of smoked paprika, and a dash of garlic powder. Mix until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Next, shape your ground beef into loosely packed balls, roughly 2-3 ounces each. Avoid compacting them too tightly, as this can result in a dense texture.
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. Place a beef ball onto the hot surface and use a spatula or burger press to smash it into a thin patty. Hold the pressure for 10-15 seconds to ensure even contact with the surface.
Let the patty cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges become crispy and browned. Flip the patty, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and gooey.
While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the brioche buns on the griddle until golden brown.
Assemble the burgers by spreading a generous layer of baconnaise sauce on the bottom bun. Add your burger patty, followed by any toppings like lettuce, tomato, or pickles. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
These smash burgers come together in no time, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Storage Options
If you find yourself with leftover smash burgers (though thatโs unlikely!), they can be stored and enjoyed later.
Refrigerate cooked patties and baconnaise sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Freezing is another option. Wrap the cooked patties individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
For the baconnaise sauce, itโs best enjoyed fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
Switch up the protein by using ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Add a touch of heat to your burgers by mixing a dash of hot sauce or chipotle peppers into the baconnaise sauce.
Experiment with different cheeses, like blue cheese crumbles or smoked gouda, to create a unique flavor profile.
For a gourmet twist, caramelize onions on the griddle alongside your patties and layer them onto the burgers.
No brioche buns? Potato rolls or sesame seed buns are excellent alternatives.
Smash burgers with baconnaise sauce offer the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Give them a tryโyou might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy a burger!
PrintSmash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
This smash burgers recipe with baconnaise sauce is a must-try for burger lovers. Crispy-edged patties, melty cheese, and a rich, smoky bacon-infused sauce come together for the ultimate burger experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until well combined. Set aside. - Toast the Buns:
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add butter, and toast the buns until golden brown. - Cook the Smash Burgers:
Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a loose ball. Place a ball on the skillet, press down firmly with a spatula to flatten it, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy edges form, then flip and top with cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes more. - Assemble the Burgers:
Spread baconnaise sauce on the bottom bun, place the cheesy burger patty on top, and add additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or pickles, if desired. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon in the sauce.
- Freeze the bacon before chopping to make crumbling easier.
- Serve with crispy fries or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
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