The Best Smash Burgers with Homemade Baconnaise

Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce take the classic burger to the next level with crispy, juicy patties, caramelized onions, and a rich, smoky bacon-infused sauce. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for backyard barbecues, game day, or any time you’re craving a seriously flavorful burger.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and crispy patties – Smash burgers create a perfectly caramelized crust.
• Baconnaise sauce – A smoky, creamy, and tangy sauce made with crispy bacon.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients.
• Packed with bold flavors – Pepper jack cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes add a delicious kick.
• Perfect for gatherings – These burgers are sure to impress at any cookout!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Burgers

• 2 lbs ground chuck (80/20 blend recommended)
• 2 white onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose rub (or your favorite seasoning blend)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt, to taste
• Avocado oil, for cooking
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• 4 slices pepper jack cheese

For the Baconnaise Sauce

• ½ lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ lb crispy chopped bacon (for topping)
• ½ cup mayo
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Directions

Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce

1. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble half and finely chop the other half.
2. In a bowl, mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and crumbled bacon.
3. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Caramelize the Onions

4. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat with a bit of avocado oil.
5. Add sliced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and caramelized.

Make the Smash Burgers

6. Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat.
7. Divide the ground chuck into 4-6 equal portions (about ⅓ lb each).
8. Place a meat ball on the hot skillet, then use a spatula or burger press to smash it down into a thin patty.
9. Season with all-purpose rub, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes.
10. Cook for 2 minutes, then flip, add pepper jack cheese, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted.

Assemble the Burgers

11. Toast the burger buns lightly in a pan or on the grill.
12. Spread Baconnaise sauce on the bottom bun.
13. Layer with a cheeseburger patty, caramelized onions, and crispy chopped bacon.
14. Top with the bun and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 burgers
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the Baconnaise sauce.
• Double smash burger: Stack two thin patties for extra indulgence.
• Low-carb option: Serve in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun.
• Cheese variations: Swap out pepper jack for cheddar, Swiss, or blue cheese.
• Sweet and smoky: Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store cooked patties and sauce separately for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
• Reheat: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side.

FAQs

What’s the secret to a great smash burger?

A hot skillet and pressing the patty thinly help create a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy.

Can I use store-bought bacon mayo?

Yes, but homemade Baconnaise sauce tastes fresher and richer.

What’s the best beef for smash burgers?

An 80/20 ground chuck blend works best for a juicy, flavorful burger.

How do I prevent my burger from drying out?

Avoid overcooking—smash burgers cook quickly! Also, don’t press down on the patty after the initial smash.

Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, but a cast iron skillet or griddle gives the best sear and caramelization.

What’s the best way to toast burger buns?

Brush with butter and toast on a skillet or grill for 1-2 minutes until golden.

Can I make this burger without onions?

Yes, but caramelized onions add a rich, sweet flavor that complements the smoky bacon sauce.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Try using a plant-based patty and vegan mayo for a meatless version.

What sides pair well with these burgers?

French fries, coleslaw, onion rings, or a side salad complement these burgers perfectly.

Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes! Turkey bacon works as a leaner alternative while still adding great flavor.

Conclusion

These Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce take your burger game to a whole new level. With juicy, crispy beef patties, caramelized onions, and smoky bacon-infused mayo, every bite is packed with bold, irresistible flavors. Whether for a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit! Try it today and enjoy the ultimate burger experience.

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