There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crisp, juicy smash burger with its golden, caramelized crust and melty cheese cascading over the edges. Paired with a creamy, smoky baconnaise sauce, this recipe takes your burger game to a whole new level.

I first tried a version of these smash burgers at a roadside diner during a family road trip, and I was hooked. Recreating them at home has become a weekend tradition that everyone looks forward to. Trust me—once you’ve had these, plain burgers will never cut it again.
Why You’ll Love This Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy burgers. These smash burgers are simple to make yet absolutely loaded with flavor.
- Crispy, caramelized crust: The thinly smashed beef patties develop a mouthwatering crust when seared on a hot griddle or skillet.
- Savory baconnaise sauce: This creamy, smoky spread combines mayonnaise with crispy bacon bits for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Quick and easy: From start to finish, these burgers are ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer classic toppings or something adventurous, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.
Once you’ve mastered the art of smashing, you’ll be making these burgers on repeat. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients Notes

The key to these unforgettable smash burgers is using fresh, quality ingredients that complement each other. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: Look for beef with at least 20% fat content for juicy patties. The fat ensures a rich, flavorful crust when seared.
- Brioche buns: These soft, slightly sweet buns are the perfect vessel for your burgers. Toast them lightly for extra texture.
- Cheese: American cheese is the classic choice because it melts perfectly, but cheddar or Swiss work too if you prefer.
- Mayonnaise: The base of the baconnaise sauce, it adds creaminess and richness.
- Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty punch to the sauce.
- Pickles: Tangy dill pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the rich burger and sauce.
- Yellow mustard and ketchup: Classic condiments for layering extra flavor.
No special equipment is needed, but a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle will help you achieve that signature crust.
How To Make This Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce

Making smash burgers at home is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to achieve diner-quality results:
- Prepare the baconnaise sauce: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons crumbled bacon and a dash of smoked paprika. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Shape and season the beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll each portion loosely into a ball and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. A hot surface is essential for that crispy crust.
- Smash the patties: Place a beef ball on the skillet and press down firmly with a spatula or burger press until it’s very thin. Hold for a few seconds, then let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.
- Flip and add cheese: Use a sturdy spatula to flip the patty, scraping up all the delicious browned bits. Immediately top with a slice of cheese and let it melt as the patty finishes cooking.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread baconnaise sauce on the bottom buns. Layer with a patty, pickles, and your favorite toppings. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately.
These burgers cook quickly, so make sure all your toppings and buns are ready to go before you start cooking!
Storage Options
If you somehow end up with leftovers (unlikely!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate patties: Place cooked patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze patties: Wrap each patty in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Store the sauce: Keep the baconnaise sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
Variations and Substitutions
This smash burger recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Spicy twist: Add sriracha or hot sauce to the baconnaise for a spicy kick.
- Different meats: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based burger patties and coconut bacon bits for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Toppings galore: Try caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
- Gluten-free: Serve the patties in lettuce wraps or with gluten-free buns.
Experiment with different combinations to create your ultimate burger masterpiece!
Smash burgers with baconnaise sauce are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and smoky goodness. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or treating yourself to a quick and satisfying meal, these burgers will steal the show.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to wow your taste buds with this irresistible recipe. Happy smashing!
PrintSmash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
Juicy smash burgers with crispy, caramelized edges topped with a mouthwatering baconnaise sauce. This easy recipe combines ground beef, melted cheese, and a smoky, tangy homemade sauce to create the perfect burger experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar or American cheese
- 4 burger buns
- Butter, for toasting buns
- For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp crispy cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Baconnaise Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Toast Buns:
- Butter the inside of the burger buns and toast them on a skillet or grill until golden brown.
- Form the Burgers:
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll into loose balls without overworking the meat.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Place a beef ball on the hot surface and smash it flat with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges are crispy. Flip, place a slice of cheese on top, and cook for another minute until melted.
- Assemble:
- Spread baconnaise sauce generously on the toasted buns. Add the cooked patties and your favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, etc.). Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, smash the patties thin and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Double the baconnaise sauce for dipping fries or veggies.
- Serve with crispy fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with baconnaise sauce
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
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