There’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy smash burger with perfectly crispy edges and tender, flavorful meat. Add a layer of smoky, creamy baconnaise sauce, and you’ve got yourself a next-level burger experience that’s impossible to resist.

The first time I made these smash burgers was during a backyard cookout, and they’ve been a hit ever since. The simplicity of the burger paired with the rich, tangy sauce has turned this into one of our family’s favorite meals. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving an indulgent dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce
Get ready to elevate your burger game! This recipe is packed with flavor and delivers on all fronts: texture, taste, and simplicity.
First, the smash method ensures crispy, caramelized edges that are absolutely irresistible. By pressing the patties thin against a hot griddle, you maximize the Maillard reaction, creating those crispy bits that everyone loves.
Second, the baconnaise sauce is the ultimate burger companion. Smoky bacon combined with creamy mayonnaise and a hint of tangy mustard creates a condiment so good, you’ll want to slather it on everything.
Plus, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll have restaurant-quality burgers in under 30 minutes – perfect for weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Lastly, it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to suit your tastes. Swap the ground beef for turkey, add some spice to the baconnaise, or load up on your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed burger experience. Let’s break them down:
- Ground Beef (80/20 Blend): This fat ratio is ideal for smash burgers. The higher fat content ensures juicy, flavorful patties that crisp up beautifully on the griddle.
- Bacon: The key to the baconnaise sauce, crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory element that makes the sauce truly special. Make sure to finely chop or crumble it for the best texture.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the sauce. Use your favorite brand or make your own if you’re feeling fancy.
- Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon adds tang and depth to the sauce, balancing out the richness of the bacon and mayo.
- Burger Buns: Choose soft, buttery buns like brioche or potato rolls for the best results. Toasting them lightly adds a lovely crunch and helps them hold up to the juicy burger.
- Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully over the patties, creating that signature gooey layer. Cheddar or Swiss can also work if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions are classic options, but feel free to get creative!
You’ll also need a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle to achieve those perfectly smashed patties.
How To Make Smash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce

Making these burgers is simple, but each step plays a crucial role in delivering maximum flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce
Start by cooking 4-5 strips of bacon until crispy. Once cooled, crumble or finely chop the bacon. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and the crumbled bacon. Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide 1 pound of ground beef into 4 equal portions, rolling them lightly into balls without compressing the meat too much. The looser texture helps create those signature crispy edges during cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Griddle
Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a thin layer of oil or a small pat of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Smash the Patties
Place a beef ball on the hot griddle and immediately press it down with a spatula or burger press. Smash it until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
Flip the patty, add a slice of American cheese, and let it cook for another minute until the cheese melts. Repeat with the remaining patties.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the patties cook, lightly toast the burger buns on the griddle or in a separate skillet. This step adds flavor and helps prevent the buns from getting soggy.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Spread a generous layer of baconnaise sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired. Place the patty on top, followed by the top bun.
Your smash burgers are ready to serve!
Storage Options
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s rare!), here’s how to store them:
- Burgers: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispiness.
- Baconnaise Sauce: The sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s also fantastic on sandwiches or as a dip for fries!
- Buns: Keep extra buns in their original packaging or in an airtight bag to prevent them from drying out.
Variations and Substitutions
This smash burger recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences:
- Spicy Baconnaise: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
- Turkey Smash Burgers: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Caramelized Onions: Swap raw onions for sweet, caramelized ones for a rich, savory twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Don’t be afraid to experiment – part of the fun of cooking is making a recipe your own!
These Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce are guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. With crispy-edged patties, a decadent sauce, and endless customization options, this recipe is a surefire winner. Let me know in the comments how you made yours special!
PrintSmash Burgers With Baconnaise Sauce Recipe
Make these flavorful smash burgers with baconnaise sauce for a mouthwatering twist on classic burgers. Juicy patties paired with a rich, smoky baconnaise sauce create the ultimate comfort meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- For the Burgers:
- Ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Burger buns
- Sliced cheese (cheddar or American)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles
- For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and finely chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Shape the Patties:
- Divide ground beef into equal portions (around 4-6 ounces each). Roll into loose balls without compacting too tightly.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Place the beef balls on the skillet, then smash each ball flat using a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until crispy, then flip and add a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns if desired. Spread baconnaise sauce on each bun half. Add the cooked patty, and layer with optional toppings.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use a sturdy spatula to press the burgers for best results.
- The baconnaise sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20) is ideal for juicy patties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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