There's nothing quite like biting into a perfectly juicy, crispy-edged smash burger topped with a creamy, smoky baconnaise sauce. The simplicity of this recipe lets the bold flavors shine, making it a hit for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

I first fell in love with smash burgers at a local diner known for their no-frills, high-flavor approach. Replicating that magic at home, especially with the addition of the irresistible baconnaise sauce, has made this recipe a household staple. Let’s dive in and get smashing!

Why You’ll Love These Smash Burgers

Get ready to upgrade your burger game with this foolproof smash burger recipe. These burgers are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

Crispy, Caramelized Edges: The hallmark of a great smash burger is the ultra-thin patty with a perfectly seared crust, created by smashing the meat directly onto a hot skillet.
Quick and Convenient: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Baconnaise Sauce Magic: This smoky, tangy sauce takes your burgers to the next level, combining the richness of mayonnaise with crispy bacon goodness.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard party, these burgers disappear in record time.

Once you’ve tasted these smash burgers, you’ll understand why they’re a must-try for any burger lover. Let’s move on to the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

This smash burger recipe keeps things simple, focusing on high-quality ingredients that deliver maximum flavor.

Ground Beef (80/20 blend): The key to a juicy burger is a mix with at least 20% fat. This ensures a tender patty that holds up well to the smashing process.
Burger Buns: Brioche buns are my top pick for their slight sweetness and soft texture. Lightly toasting them adds a subtle crunch.
Cheese: Classic American cheese melts beautifully, enveloping the patty in gooey goodness. You can also try cheddar or pepper jack for a twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon crumbles are the star of the baconnaise sauce. Cook until golden and crumble them finely.
Mayonnaise: Use a creamy, high-quality mayo as the base for the sauce. It ties all the flavors together.
Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles add a tangy bite, perfectly balancing the rich flavors.
Special Equipment: A flat cast-iron skillet or griddle is essential for achieving the crispy edges. A sturdy spatula is also a must for smashing the patties effectively.

How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce

Making these smash burgers is as much fun as eating them! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your new favorite burger.

Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
Start by frying 4-5 strips of bacon until crispy. Crumble the bacon into small pieces and mix it with ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Shape the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4-ounce portions and gently shape them into loose balls. Avoid compacting the meat, as this will keep the patties tender.
Toast the Buns:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly butter the cut sides of your buns and toast them until golden brown. Set aside.
Smash the Patties:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add a drizzle of vegetable oil to the skillet. Place a beef ball onto the hot surface and smash it down with a spatula, applying firm, even pressure until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Hold for 10 seconds to ensure even searing.
Season and Flip:
Sprinkle each patty with salt and pepper while it cooks. After 2-3 minutes, once the edges are crisp and browned, flip the patty and immediately top with a slice of cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of baconnaise sauce on the bottom bun. Add a cheesy patty, a few pickle slices, and top with the second bun. Repeat for the remaining burgers.

This entire process takes less than 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and enjoy them later.

Refrigerator: Store cooked patties and buns separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Cooked patties can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add fresh sauce and toppings before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about smash burgers is their versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to the baconnaise or sprinkle chili flakes over the patties before smashing.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for plant-based patties and use a smoky tempeh bacon alternative for the sauce.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with blue cheese crumbles, Swiss, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Sauce Swap: While baconnaise is the star, try other sauces like garlic aioli or sriracha mayo for variety.
Add Veggies: Top with grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh lettuce for added texture and flavor.

No matter how you customize it, these smash burgers are sure to impress. So, grab your skillet and start smashing – your perfect burger awaits!