These smash burgers are juicy and full of flavor, especially with their special baconnaise sauce! It’s a creamy blend that perfectly complements the delicious beef patties.
Making these burgers is such a fun experience—don’t forget to press down on those patties for that great crispy edge! I love serving them with crispy fries on the side—it’s a treat for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A blend of 80/20 (meat to fat ratio) is perfect for juicy, flavorful burgers. If you’re aiming for a leaner burger, you can try 85/15 or even ground turkey, though the flavor will differ.
Onions: Sliced onions add sweetness through caramelization. If you prefer milder flavors, red onions work great too. Skip the onion entirely if you’re avoiding them.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, I enjoy using pepper jack for a spicy kick. Gouda or Swiss also add a unique taste if you’d like to switch things up.
Baconnaise Sauce: This sauce is a tasty blend of mayonnaise and bacon. If you’re vegan or seeking a lighter option, you could use avocado or a vegan mayo. Smoked paprika can give a nice smoky flavor without the bacon.
Sesame Seed Hamburger Buns: These buns are great for a bit of crunch. You can swap them for whole wheat or gluten-free buns if necessary. Even lettuce wraps work if you’re looking for a low-carb option!
How Can I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions properly is key to bringing out their sweetness. It requires patience and some attention, but it’s simple!
- Start with a medium heat and a bit of oil in your skillet.
- Add the sliced onions and stir occasionally. After about 10-15 minutes, the onions should turn golden brown and soft.
- If they start to brown too quickly or stick, reduce the heat and keep stirring. Don’t rush this step; good caramelization takes time!
Also, consider adding a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture, enhancing the sweetness as they cook!
Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3-4 strips of cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the baconnaise sauce, 10-15 minutes cooking the onions, and another 5-10 minutes to make and assemble the burgers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by making the baconnaise sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Once done, set it aside while you work on the burgers.
2. Cook the Onions:
Next, grab a skillet and place it over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and toss in the thinly sliced onions. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and caramelized, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once they’re nice and soft, remove them from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Smash Burgers:
Now it’s time to cook the burgers! Heat a flat griddle or a large skillet over high heat. Lightly coat the surface with oil to keep things from sticking. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls, each about 4 ounces. Place each ball on the hot surface and quickly smash it down with a heavy spatula or a burger press to create thin patties. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms, then flip them over. Top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese melts beautifully.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the sesame seed buns on the griddle or in a toaster until they’re warm and slightly crispy. Once toasted, spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, add a good scoop of caramelized onions, and finally, cap it with the top half of the bun.
5. Serve:
The moment has come! Serve your delicious smash burgers immediately while they’re still hot. Feel free to add extra baconnaise on the side for dipping if you’d like. Enjoy the juicy flavors!
## FAQ for Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be aware that the cooking times may vary slightly; ensure that any meat you choose is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature.
How to Store Leftover Baconnaise Sauce?
Store leftover baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s perfect for spreading on sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables! Just give it a quick stir before using, as the ingredients may separate slightly.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon for the Baconnaise Sauce?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon! Just chop it into small pieces and add it to the mayonnaise blend. Note that using regular bacon may enhance the flavor and texture, but pre-cooked bacon is a convenient shortcut.
What Should I Serve with Smash Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with crispy fries or onion rings. For a healthier option, consider a side salad or coleslaw to balance out the richness of the baconnaise sauce! Feel free to get creative with your sides!
