Smash Burgers with Baconnaise

Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce are my answer to those cravings for a classic burger with a little excitement. These are not just burgers but a combination of juicy beef patties, crispy turkey bacon, a pile of sweet onions, and a tangy baconnaise sauce that drips down your wrist with every bite. They are perfect for cookouts or a regular Thursday night at home and make any meal feel like an event.

The first time I made a tray of these for family movie night, I watched every patty vanish in minutes. Watching my crew wipe the last drops of baconnaise off their plates is how I know this is a winner.

Ingredients

• Ground chuck: at least eighty percent lean so the burgers stay juicy and flavorful I like to use freshly ground beef from the butcher if possible
• White onions: for sweetness and crunch slice them super thin for best results
• Turkey bacon: adds crispy saltiness choose one that gets nice and brown when cooked
• Salt pepper and garlic: to season these lift all the flavors of the meat and onions
• Mustard: for extra zest when searing the burgers on the griddle
• Pepper jack cheese: brings creamy melt with a hint of spice buy it sliced fresh at the deli counter if you can
• Burger buns: should be soft yet sturdy enough to hold all those layers go for potato buns or brioche
• Avocado oil: for cooking gives you a high smoke point and keeps the patties from sticking
• Mayonnaise: is the creamy base for the baconnaise sauce make sure it is real mayo for best texture
• Ketchup and more mustard: for that tangy zip in the sauce
• Crispy turkey bacon: again this echoes the flavor from the patty and ties everything together
• Worcestershire sauce: delivers a subtle savoriness choose one with natural ingredients
• Apple cider vinegar: for a touch of brightness and acidity
• All purpose rub: like salt pepper garlic blend to layer flavor in the sauce
• Red pepper flakes: for a bit of heat crush them fresh if you like a punch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Form the Burger Balls:

Shape the ground chuck into balls weighing about a third of a pound each and set them on a baking tray in the fridge for half an hour This helps them stay together when smashed and creates a juicy result

Slice the Onions:

Using a mandoline with a hand guard carefully shave your onions into thin rounds Lay them out on a towel to wick off excess moisture and cover until you are ready

Cook the Turkey Bacon:

Crisp up your turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and a little chewy Let it cool then chop into small pieces saving half for the sauce and half for burger topping

Mix the Baconnaise Sauce:

Whisk together mayo ketchup mustard worcestershire apple cider vinegar the chopped turkey bacon your spice blend and pepper flakes Taste and adjust the seasoning then chill in the fridge

Preheat and Oil the Griddle:

Bring your griddle or frying pan to medium high and pour on avocado oil to coat evenly Wait until it shimmers for the best burger crust

Smash the Burgers:

Place a meat ball on the hot griddle and immediately top with a handful of onions Press down with a burger press until thin Season generously with salt pepper and garlic

Flip and Add Cheese:

When the underside is browned after about four minutes smear mustard on the uncooked side flip the patty and lay on sliced pepper jack cheese Let the cheese melt as the second side crisps

Toast the Buns:

Set buns face down on the griddle until gold and slightly crunchy This keeps them from getting soggy

Assemble the Burgers:

Spread a thick layer of baconnaise on the bottom bun Stack on two patties sprinkle over any extra bacon and spoon on more sauce Top with the final bun and get ready for messy deliciousness

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My favorite part is loading up extra turkey bacon for crunch This recipe always reminds me of summer grilling weekends when my kids would sneak pieces of cooked bacon while waiting for the burgers

Storage Tips

Leftover smash burgers store best wrapped tightly in foil or sealed in containers Keep them refrigerated for up to four days For baconnaise sauce a jar with a tight lid works well and keeps it rich for about a week Make sure buns are stored separately to avoid sogginess When freezing wrap burgers individually for easy reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

No ground chuck Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter taste or even ground lamb for a different flavor profile Substitute turkey bacon with regular pork bacon or a plant based bacon for vegetarians If pepper jack cheese is too spicy cheddar or swiss both work as creamy alternatives For those with egg allergies swap mayo for a vegan version without losing creaminess

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these burgers with classic sides like baked fries or homemade potato chips For a lighter meal add a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette I love piling on lettuce tomato pickles or even grilled mushrooms The burgers also make great sliders just form smaller patties and use mini buns

Cultural and Historical Context

Smash burgers come from the diners and burger joints of the American Midwest where short cooking times and a caramelized crust are everything The technique of smashing meat on a hot griddle goes back generations Baconnaise sauce is a modern twist but echoes the tradition of mixing bacon into sauces for richness

Common Recipe Questions

→ What meat is best for smash burgers?

Choose ground chuck with an 80/20 fat ratio for juicy, flavorful burgers that hold together well during the smash and sear process.

→ How do I keep the patties juicy and tender?

Form meat balls and chill before cooking, avoid overworking the beef, and smash firmly but quickly for a crispy crust while keeping the interior tender.

→ How can I customize baconnaise sauce?

Add smoked paprika, dill, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust ingredients to taste for extra depth or a unique twist.

→ Can these burgers be grilled instead of cooked on a griddle?

Yes, grill over medium-high heat and press patties down with a spatula, ensuring crispy edges and melted cheese just as on a griddle.

→ What sides go well with these burgers?

Pair with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, onion rings, or a mixed green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate in airtight containers up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven, skillet, or microwave until hot.