There's nothing like the sound of a smash burger sizzling on a hot griddle. The crispy edges, juicy center, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a favorite in our house. But what takes this classic to the next level? The indulgently creamy, smoky baconnaise sauce that pairs perfectly with every bite.
I first created this recipe on a whim during a backyard barbecue, experimenting with ways to add even more flavor to a traditional smash burger. The result? A mouthwatering combination that quickly became a must-have at every family gathering. Let’s dive into why this is about to be your new go-to burger recipe.
Why You'll Love This Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce
Get ready to meet your ultimate burger night hero. These smash burgers are everything you crave in a burger – simple, flavorful, and satisfying – with a twist that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
First, let’s talk about the sear. The beauty of a smash burger lies in the crispy crust that forms when the beef meets a hot griddle. It's a game-changer in the world of burgers.
Next, the baconnaise sauce. Made with smoky bacon and creamy mayonnaise, this sauce is pure magic. It's rich, tangy, and adds a layer of indulgence that takes the burger from good to unforgettable.
This recipe is also quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute backyard cookout. From prep to plate, you’ll have everything ready in under 30 minutes.
Finally, the customization options are endless. Whether you love classic toppings like lettuce and tomato or want to experiment with unique add-ons like fried onions, this burger adapts beautifully.
Ingredients Notes

The key to these amazing smash burgers lies in the quality and combination of ingredients. Simple, fresh, and flavorful components make all the difference.
Start with ground beef that has a higher fat content, like an 80/20 blend. The fat ensures the patties stay juicy while developing that iconic crispy edge.
The bacon is the heart of the baconnaise sauce. Cook it until crisp and save a bit of the rendered fat – it adds an irresistible smoky depth to the sauce.
Mayonnaise is the base of the sauce, and its creamy texture perfectly balances the salty crunch of the bacon. For an extra kick, you can use a tangy mayo like Kewpie.
Cheese is optional, but highly recommended. Classic American cheese melts beautifully over the patties and adds a creamy, nostalgic flavor.
Finally, don’t skimp on the buns. A soft brioche or potato roll toasted with butter adds the perfect final touch.
How to Make This Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce

Making these burgers is quick, straightforward, and incredibly rewarding. Here’s how to do it.
Start by preparing your baconnaise sauce. Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it into small pieces. In a small bowl, mix the bacon bits with mayonnaise and a touch of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Set it aside while you work on the burgers.
Heat a large griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add a touch of oil or bacon fat. Divide your ground beef into equal portions (about 3 ounces each) and roll them into loose balls.
Place the beef balls onto the hot surface and use a sturdy spatula to press them flat. You’ll want them very thin, so press hard! Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patties, add cheese if desired, and cook for another minute or two.
While the patties are cooking, toast your buns on the griddle. A light butter coating will help them brown beautifully and add extra flavor.
To assemble, spread the baconnaise sauce generously on both sides of the buns. Add the burger patties and layer with any additional toppings you love – lettuce, tomato, pickles, or even caramelized onions.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), you can store cooked patties and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat the patties, place them on a hot skillet for a minute or two on each side. This helps retain their crispy texture while warming through.
The baconnaise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using again, and it’s perfect for sandwiches or dipping fries, too.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your burgers.
If you prefer turkey or chicken, substitute the beef patties with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The baconnaise sauce pairs wonderfully with both.
For a spicier twist, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the baconnaise sauce.
You can also experiment with cheese varieties – sharp cheddar or pepper jack are excellent alternatives to American cheese.
Vegetarian? Swap the beef for plant-based burger patties and use veggie bacon in the sauce. The result is just as delicious!
Smash burgers are all about that crispy texture, so don’t skip the pressing step. It’s what makes them stand out from traditional burgers.
Now that you’ve got the steps down, it’s time to fire up your griddle and experience the magic of smash burgers with baconnaise sauce. Enjoy!
PrintSmash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
Learn how to make the best smash burgers paired with creamy baconnaise sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner, these burgers are loaded with flavor, crispy edges, and a smoky, tangy sauce. A must-try recipe for burger lovers!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Smash Burgers:
- Ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Burger buns
- Cheese slices (optional)
- Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions (optional, for topping)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 slices cooked bacon, finely crumbled
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Baconnaise Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined. Set aside.
- Form and Cook the Patties:
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and loosely shape into balls.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place a ball of beef on the skillet and press it down firmly with a spatula to form a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip, and cook the other side until crispy and browned. Add a cheese slice if desired, and let it melt.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns. Spread a generous amount of baconnaise sauce on each side of the bun.
- Add lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, if desired. Place the burger patty on top and assemble.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately with fries or your favorite side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispy edges, do not over-handle the beef and ensure the skillet is very hot.
- Baconnaise sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Customize your toppings to suit your taste!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with sauce
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
Leave a Reply