Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce – Crispy, Juicy & Over-the-Top Delicious
These Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce are the ultimate indulgent burger—crispy edges, juicy center, melty cheese, and a smoky, creamy homemade baconnaise that takes everything to the next level. Quick to make and better than takeout, this recipe is perfect for burger night, cookouts, or whenever you’re craving something bold and flavorful. All you need is a hot skillet, a handful of ingredients, and a serious appetite.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Smash Burgers
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is best for juicy burgers)
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns work great)
4 slices American or cheddar cheese
Butter or oil for toasting buns
Pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced onions (optional toppings)
For the Baconnaise Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, finely minced or ¼ tsp garlic powder
Pinch of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
🔄 Substitutions
Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based patty
Cheese: Swap with Swiss, pepper jack, or vegan cheese
Baconnaise: Use turkey bacon or bacon bits for convenience
Buns: Opt for gluten-free, lettuce wraps, or keto buns
Mayo: Sub with Greek yogurt for a lighter take on the sauce
👨🍳 How to
Make the baconnaise by mixing all sauce ingredients in a bowl and refrigerating until ready to use
Divide ground beef into 4 loose balls (do not pack tightly)
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot
Add burger balls and smash immediately with a spatula or burger press until very thin
Season with salt and pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes until edges are crispy
Flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook for 1 more minute until cheese is melted
Meanwhile, toast the buns in butter until golden
Assemble burgers: spread baconnaise on both buns, add the patty, and layer with lettuce, pickles, or onions if using
Serve hot with fries, chips, or a simple salad
🧀 Mix-ins
Crispy fried onions or jalapeños for crunch
A fried egg for brunch-style burgers
Tomato slices or grilled mushrooms
Double the patties for an extra meaty experience
✅ Recipe Tips
Don’t overwork the beef—keep the patties loose for the best texture
Use a very hot pan for a crispy sear and caramelized edges
Press hard with the spatula when smashing—thin is key
Make the baconnaise ahead of time for even better flavor
📦 Storage
Store leftover patties and baconnaise separately in airtight containers
Reheat patties in a skillet to keep the crispy texture
Baconnaise will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days
Not freezer-friendly once assembled—freeze raw patties separately if needed
🌀 Recipe Variations
Spicy Smash Burger: Add hot sauce or jalapeños to the baconnaise
Low-carb version: Serve patties in lettuce wraps with sauce and veggies
Bacon-on-bacon: Add full bacon strips to the burger for max flavor
Slider version: Use mini buns and smaller patties for party snacks
❓ FAQs
What makes smash burgers different? They’re pressed thin on a hot surface for crispy edges and juicy centers
Can I use pre-cooked bacon for the sauce? Yes—just make sure it’s finely chopped and crispy
How do I stop the burger from sticking when smashing? Use parchment paper between the spatula and the meat, or grease the spatula
Is baconnaise safe to store? Yes, store it covered in the fridge and use within 5 days
These Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce are juicy, crispy, and ridiculously crave-worthy—perfect for your next burger night or casual dinner that doesn’t hold back on flavor.
