Ultimate Smash Burgers & Rich Beef Baconnaise Sauce Recipe

Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to an unparalleled culinary experience that promises to redefine your perception of the perfect burger. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly caramelized, juicy beef patty, achieving that coveted crispy edge thanks to the “smash” technique that has taken the culinary world by storm. This method, originating from humble diner griddles, ensures maximum flavor and an irresistible texture that a regular grilled burger simply can’t match.

But what truly elevates this dish to legendary status is our homemade Beef Baconnaise Sauce. This creamy, smoky, and utterly addictive condiment introduces a luxurious depth of flavor, marrying the savory richness of beef bacon with the tangy zest of a classic mayonnaise. It’s a sophisticated twist on a beloved American comfort food, offering layers of umami that dance on your palate. I find that this combination is what makes these burgers so incredibly popular—the contrast between the crunchy patty and the silky, flavor-packed sauce is simply divine.

I’m genuinely thrilled to guide you through crafting these incredible Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a burger that’s not just a meal, but a memorable occasion.

Ingredients:

• For the Smash Burgers:
  • 1.5 lbs (about 680g) 80/20 ground beef chuck (or 85/15 for a slightly leaner option, but 80/20 gives the best flavor and juiciness for a true smash burger experience)
  • 4 brioche burger buns, or your favorite sturdy burger bun, sliced horizontally
  • 8 slices American cheese, or a good melting cheese like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil with a high smoke point (such as canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil), plus more for greasing the griddle if needed
  • Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Thinly sliced red onion, dill pickle chips, crisp lettuce leaves (like iceberg or butter lettuce), sliced ripe tomatoes for topping
• For the Beef Baconnaise Sauce:
  • 6-8 slices high-quality beef bacon (check for good marbling and smoky flavor)
  • 1 cup good quality mayonnaise (I prefer a brand that’s rich and creamy)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced very fine or grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (this adds another layer of smoky depth that complements the beef bacon beautifully)
  • 1 tablespoon pickle juice (from a jar of dill pickles – don’t skip this, it adds a lovely tang!)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped, plus more for garnish if desired
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Beef Baconnaise Sauce: The Secret Weapon for Your Smash Burgers

Let’s kick things off with the star condiment that truly elevates these Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce to legendary status. This sauce is creamy, smoky, tangy, and bursting with savory beef bacon flavor. Trust me, it’s worth every step!

1. Crisping the Beef Bacon: First, we need to render and crisp our beef bacon. Lay the beef bacon slices in a single layer in a cold skillet or frying pan. Place it over medium heat. As the pan heats up gradually, the fat will slowly render, allowing the bacon to cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy without burning. Cook for about 8-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the bacon is deep golden brown and shatteringly crisp.

   Pro Tip for Perfect Bacon:

   Don’t rush this step. Low and slow is the key to perfectly crisp bacon. Once cooked, transfer the beef bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess fat. Let it cool completely. This cooling step is crucial; warm bacon can make your sauce greasy.

2. Crumble and Prepare: Once the beef bacon is completely cooled, it should be brittle enough to easily crumble. Using your fingers or a sharp knife, finely crumble or chop the crispy beef bacon into small bits. Set aside about 1 tablespoon of the finest crumbs for garnish later, if you like.
3. Mixing the Baconnaise Base: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and pickle juice. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well-combined. The Dijon adds a sharp tang, the garlic provides aromatic depth, and the smoked paprika really plays up the smoky notes from our beef bacon.
4. Folding in the Flavor: Add the crumbled beef bacon bits and the finely chopped fresh chives to the mayonnaise mixture. Gently fold everything together with a spoon or spatula until the bacon and chives are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
5. Season and Chill: Season the Beef Baconnaise Sauce with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a tiny pinch of salt, but usually, the bacon and pickle juice provide enough salinity. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, an hour or longer. This chilling time allows all those incredible flavors to meld together, resulting in a much more cohesive and delicious sauce. You can even make this a day ahead, and the flavors will be even more pronounced! This sauce is truly the backbone of our incredible Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce.

Preparing Your Smash Burgers: Achieving Maximum Flavor and Crunch

Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show itself: the perfect smash burger. The technique for smash burgers is all about creating an incredible crust and locking in juiciness. Forget perfectly formed patties; we want irregular, crispy edges here!

6. Portioning the Ground Beef: Divide your 1.5 lbs of 80/20 ground beef into eight equal portions. The easiest way to do this is to form it into one large log, then cut it in half, then half again, and then divide each quarter into two. You should end up with eight loose balls of meat, each weighing approximately 3 ounces (about 85-90 grams). Do not press them into patties yet! Keep them in a loose ball shape; this is crucial for the smashing technique.
7. Preheating Your Cooking Surface: This is arguably the most critical step for a successful smash burger. Place a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet or a flat-top griddle over high heat. Let it preheat for at least 5-7 minutes, until it’s smoking slightly. A screaming hot surface is essential to achieve that signature crispy, caramelized crust (the Maillard reaction) on your smash burgers.

   Safety First:

   Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated, as there will be some smoke. Have an exhaust fan running.

8. Toasting the Buns: While your skillet heats, lightly butter the cut sides of your brioche buns (optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor and texture). Once the skillet is hot, toast the buns, cut-side down, for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until they are golden brown and lightly crisped. Remove them from the skillet and set aside. This small step makes a huge difference in the overall texture and integrity of your burger.
9. The Smash! Add about 1 tablespoon of your high-smoke-point oil to the hot skillet, ensuring it coats the surface. Immediately place two to four (depending on your skillet size) of your loose beef balls onto the very hot surface, leaving some space between them. Working quickly, place a piece of parchment paper over each beef ball. Using a sturdy, flat spatula (preferably a metal one) and another spatula or a heavy object to press down on top, firmly press each beef ball into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. Apply significant downward pressure for about 10 seconds. The goal is to create a wide, thin patty with irregular, lacy edges.

   The Importance of the Smash:

   The “smash” creates maximum contact between the beef and the hot pan, leading to an incredibly flavorful, crispy crust. The parchment paper prevents the beef from sticking to your spatula, making it easy to lift off. Once smashed, immediately remove the parchment paper.

10. Seasoning and Searing: Generously season the top surface of each smashed patty with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the burgers cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes. During this time, you’ll see those beautiful crispy edges forming and the meat beginning to brown up the sides.
11. Flip and Cheese: When the edges are dark and crispy and the underside has a deep, rich brown crust, it’s time to flip. Use your sturdy spatula to scrape underneath each patty, making sure to get all those crispy bits. Flip them over. Immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. The residual heat from the burger and the pan will quickly melt the cheese into a glorious, gooey blanket.
12. Finishing the Cook: Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes on the second side, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the burgers are cooked to your desired doneness (for thin smash burgers, this is usually medium to medium-well). You don’t want to overcook these thin patties, as they can dry out quickly.
13. Rest (Briefly): Carefully transfer the cooked and cheesed patties to a plate. Allow them to rest for just a minute or two. This brief rest helps the juices redistribute, ensuring your burgers remain as moist and flavorful as possible. Repeat steps 9-12 with the remaining beef balls, adding more oil to the pan if needed between batches to maintain that non-stick surface. Keep the heat consistently high.

Assembling Your Ultimate Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce:

You’ve done all the hard work, and now comes the best part: bringing it all together into an epic bite! This assembly method ensures every layer shines and the Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce live up to their full potential.

14. Bottom Bun Prep: Take your perfectly toasted bottom brioche bun. I like to start by spreading a generous dollop of that glorious Beef Baconnaise Sauce directly onto the bottom bun. This acts as a delicious foundation and a barrier to keep the bun from getting soggy from the juicy patties.
15. Stacking the Patties: Place two cheesy smash burger patties directly onto the sauced bottom bun. For a true double smash burger experience, two thin patties are always better than one thick one – you get twice the crispy surface area! The melted cheese acts as a delicious glue between them.
16. Layering the Toppings: Now, it’s time for your chosen fresh toppings. I usually go for a simple, classic lineup that complements the richness of the burger and the baconnaise.
    • Start with a few dill pickle chips directly on top of the patties. Their bright acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
    • Next, add your thin slices of red onion. For a milder onion flavor, you can soak them in ice water for 10-15 minutes before assembling.
    • If using, add a fresh slice of ripe tomato for a burst of juiciness.
    • Finally, layer on some crisp lettuce leaves (like iceberg or butter lettuce) for that satisfying crunch and freshness. The lettuce goes on top to keep it from wilting too quickly from the heat of the patties.
17. The Grand Finale – More Baconnaise! This is where we ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Take another generous spoonful (or two!) of your chilled Beef Baconnaise Sauce and slather it on the underside of your top bun. This creates a double layer of deliciousness and ensures the sauce is present in every bite. If you saved some finely crumbled beef bacon, sprinkle a tiny bit over the sauce on the top bun for an extra textural and visual flourish.
18. Cap It Off and Serve: Place the top bun firmly onto your assembled burger. Gently press down to compact everything slightly, making it easier to eat. Serve your magnificent Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce immediately, perhaps with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Get ready for a truly unforgettable burger experience, where the crispy, savory beef meets the smoky, tangy, creamy baconnaise in perfect harmony! Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors – truly a triumph of burger artistry. Enjoy your masterpiece!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve journeyed through the delectable world of creating something truly extraordinary in your own kitchen. After all the sizzling, smashing, and saucing, you’re left with more than just a meal; you’re left with an experience that will undoubtedly become a new staple in your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just another burger recipe; it’s an invitation to elevate your weeknight dinner or your weekend barbecue to an entirely new level of deliciousness. What makes this recipe an absolute game-changer, a genuine must-try? It’s the magical combination of perfectly seared, crispy-edged patties, a wonderfully juicy interior, and of course, that unbelievably rich, savory, and utterly addictive Beef Baconnaise Sauce. Trust me when I say, once you taste the symphony of flavors and textures, there’s no going back to a plain old burger.

I genuinely believe that every bite of these burgers is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients, when treated with a little care and a touch of creativity, can produce something spectacular. The secret lies not just in the smashing technique, which guarantees those coveted crispy edges and a quicker cook time, but also in the thoughtful layering of flavors. The slight char on the bun, the freshness of your chosen toppings, and that glorious, smoky, umami-packed sauce all come together to create a harmony that will make your taste buds sing. It’s the kind of dish that brings a smile to your face from the first aromatic whiff to the last satisfying bite. You’ll find yourself wondering why you hadn’t discovered this simple pleasure sooner, and I promise you, your family and friends will be asking for the recipe repeatedly. This truly is an unforgettable meal!

Now, while these burgers are perfect on their own, a true culinary experience often benefits from some thoughtful accompaniments. For classic perfection, you absolutely can’t go wrong with a generous helping of golden, crispy french fries – perhaps seasoned with a touch of garlic powder and paprika for an extra kick. Alternatively, a fresh, vibrant coleslaw offers a fantastic textural contrast and a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the burger beautifully. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette would be an excellent choice, providing a welcome freshness. And for those who love to experiment, consider serving them alongside sweet potato fries or even some roasted broccoli for a surprisingly delicious and wholesome twist. Don’t be afraid to think outside the bun when it comes to your sides!

Speaking of thinking outside the bun, let’s talk variations! While the core recipe for Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce is divine as is, there’s always room to personalize and make it truly your own. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses: a sharp cheddar for a classic bite, a creamy provolone for melt-in-your-mouth goodness, or even a spicy pepper jack if you like a little heat. Want to load up on veggies? Caramelized onions add a sweet, savory depth, while sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy richness. For those who enjoy a bit more tang, a few bread and butter pickles or some pickled jalapeños can really elevate the flavor profile. You could even swap out the type of bun – a brioche bun offers a buttery sweetness, while a classic potato bun provides a softer, more absorbent base. The beauty of a burger recipe is its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your exact preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

But let’s not forget our secret weapon: The Beef Baconnaise Sauce.

This sauce isn’t just for burgers, folks! It’s a versatile condiment that you might find yourself adding to everything. Imagine it as a dipping sauce for those crispy fries we just talked about, or spread inside a grilled cheese sandwich for an unbelievably rich upgrade. It would even be fantastic drizzled over roasted vegetables or used as a base for a gourmet hot dog. Don’t let any of it go to waste, and definitely consider making an extra batch to keep in the fridge – you’ll thank me later. It’s that unique, smoky, umami bomb that really sets this entire dish apart and makes it truly unforgettable.

Now it’s YOUR turn!

I’ve walked you through every step, shared all my tips, and hopefully, ignited your culinary adventurous spirit. The only thing left to do is for you to roll up your sleeves, fire up your griddle, and experience the magic of these incredible Smash Burgers With Beef Baconnaise Sauce for yourself. Don’t hesitate to dive in; I promise you, the reward is well worth the effort. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from creating something so profoundly delicious with your own hands. Once you’ve taken that glorious first bite, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience! Did you stick to the classic toppings, or did you venture into new variations? What was your favorite part of the process? Did your family rave about it as much as I think they will? Please, share your stories, your triumphs, and even your funny kitchen anecdotes in the comments below or on social media. Your feedback and photos truly inspire me and the entire cooking community. Let’s make some amazing burgers!

Smash Burgers with Beef Baconnaise Sauce

Experience the ultimate culinary delight with Smash Burgers featuring a perfectly caramelized, crispy beef patty and a rich, smoky homemade Beef Baconnaise Sauce. This recipe redefines the classic burger with a sophisticated twist, offering layers of umami and irresistible textures.

Prep Time
45 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
10 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) 80/20 ground beef chuck
• 4 brioche burger buns, sliced
• 8 slices American cheese
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• Coarse sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• Dill pickle chips (optional)
• Crisp lettuce leaves (optional)
• Sliced ripe tomatoes (optional)
• 6-8 slices beef bacon
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp pickle juice
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1
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2. Step 2
   {‘@type’: ‘HowToStep’, ‘name’: ‘Prepare the Smash Burgers’, ‘itemListElement’: [{‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Divide 1.5 lbs ground beef into 8 loose balls (approx. 3 oz each).’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Preheat a heavy cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat for 5-7 minutes until smoking. Toast buttered buns, cut-side down, for 30-60 seconds; set aside.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Add 1 tbsp oil to the hot skillet. Place 2-4 beef balls, cover with parchment paper, and firmly smash each into a thin 1/4-inch patty. Remove parchment.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Generously season patties with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until deep brown and crispy edges form.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Scrape and flip patties, immediately topping each with a slice of American cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest briefly. Repeat with remaining beef balls, adding more oil if needed.’}]}
3. Step 3
   {‘@type’: ‘HowToStep’, ‘name’: ‘Assemble and Serve’, ‘itemListElement’: [{‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Spread a generous dollop of Beef Baconnaise Sauce on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Place two cheesy smash burger patties onto the sauced bottom bun.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Layer with optional toppings: dill pickle chips, thinly sliced red onion, sliced ripe tomato, and crisp lettuce leaves.’}, {‘@type’: ‘HowToDirection’, ‘text’: ‘Spread more Baconnaise Sauce on the underside of the top bun. Place the top bun firmly onto the assembled burger. Serve immediately.’}]}

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.