Smash burgers are beloved for their crispy crust and tender interior, achieved by pressing ground beef directly onto a sizzling hot griddle. But what happens when you take this classic burger and give it a bold upgrade? You get Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce—a juicy, flavorful explosion of savory meat, melty cheese, and a rich, smoky mayo-based sauce made with real bacon.
Perfect for backyard cookouts, quick dinners, or whenever burger cravings hit, this recipe delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort.
⭐ Why You’ll Love These Smash Burgers
- Crispy and Juicy: The smash technique gives maximum crust and flavor.
- Smoky & Creamy Sauce: Baconnaise takes it over the top.
- Quick and Easy: Done in 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Customizable and perfect for entertaining.
🛠 What You’ll Need
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
🔥 How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise
- Prep the Pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Add oil.
- Shape the Patties: Roll ground beef into 4 balls. No need to flatten yet.
- Smash Time: Place each ball in the hot pan and smash with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add Cheese: After 2–3 minutes, flip and add cheese. Cook another 1–2 minutes.
- Make the Baconnaise: Mix mayo, bacon, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast burger buns for added crunch.
- Assemble: Spread Baconnaise on buns, top with patties, and garnish with parsley.
🧠 Expert Tips
- Use 80/20 beef for ideal fat and flavor.
- Don’t overwork the beef—keep it loose for better texture.
- Use a burger press or heavy spatula to get that perfect crust.
- Make extra Baconnaise—you’ll want it on everything!
🧂 Optional Toppings
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Caramelized onions
- Extra bacon
🥓 What Makes Baconnaise So Good?
This smoky, rich sauce is a flavor powerhouse. The bacon adds a savory crunch while the mayo creates creamy balance. Garlic powder and smoked paprika give it that irresistible umami and depth. It’s not just for burgers—try it on sandwiches, fries, or grilled veggies.
🍔 The Best Buns for Smash Burgers
A lightly toasted classic burger bun works perfectly. For something fancier, use brioche for a touch of sweetness or pretzel buns for more chew and flavor.
🧤 Mandoline Tip for Onions
Thin-sliced onions crisp up beautifully when smashed into the patty. Use a mandoline for paper-thin slices—but always use the safety guard or gloves.
📦 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Cooked patties last 3–4 days in the fridge.
- Baconnaise: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Reheat Patties: Use a hot skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness.
⭐ Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back
Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce are more than a trend—they’re a modern classic. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe proves you don’t need a grill or a restaurant to enjoy the best burger of your life. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies every time.
So fire up the skillet, smash those patties, and slather on that smoky bacon mayo. This is burger bliss.