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Smash Burgers With Baconnaise

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These smash burgers combine crispy seared patties with a rich and smoky baconnaise sauce, layered between buttery brioche buns and melty cheddar cheese. The beef is pressed thin on a hot griddle to form a savory crust, while the baconnaise—made with bacon, mayo, and spices—adds irresistible flavor. Ideal for griddle cooking and endlessly customizable with toppings and cheese options, this dish delivers bold, satisfying bites perfect for weeknight dinners or cookouts.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Wed, 23 Jul 2025 21:07:54 GMT
A close up of a burger with baconnaise. Bookmark
A close up of a burger with baconnaise. | ioanacooks.com

The moment your spatula hits the hot griddle and that beef starts to sizzle, you know you are in for something special. These smash burgers with baconnaise are a beautiful balance of crispy seared patties and creamy smoky bacon laced sauce that clings to every bite. The buttery brioche buns and sharp cheddar bring it all together in a perfect burger harmony. Whether it is game day or just a weeknight craving this recipe delivers big on flavor and crunch.

I started making these on casual weekends and now they are the number one request whenever friends come over. The baconnaise truly steals the show.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: eighty twenty blend rich fat content ensures juicy patties
  • Brioche buns: soft buttery and slightly sweet ideal for balancing savory meat
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: adds bold creamy flavor that melts perfectly
  • Red onion: thinly sliced for a crisp sweet bite
  • Dill pickle chips: bring sharp acidity and crunch
  • Butter: for toasting the buns to golden perfection
  • Salt and pepper: essential seasoning for building flavor

Baconnaise Sauce

  • Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base
  • Cooked bacon: chopped finely for smoky crunchy bits
  • Dijon mustard: adds a tangy depth
  • Smoked paprika: lends subtle warmth and color
  • Bacon fat: optional but enhances savory richness
  • Salt and pepper: to taste for balance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Baconnaise:
In a small bowl stir together mayonnaise chopped bacon Dijon mustard smoked paprika and bacon fat if using. Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the fridge while preparing the burgers.
Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Set a griddle or cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Allow it to get very hot to ensure maximum crust formation.
Form and Smash the Patties:
Divide ground beef into four loose balls. Place each on the hot surface and immediately press flat using a heavy spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook without moving for two to three minutes until a golden crust forms.
Flip and Add Cheese:
Flip each patty gently then top with a slice of sharp cheddar. Cook another one to two minutes until the cheese melts and the patty is cooked through.
Toast the Buns:
In a separate pan or on the griddle melt the butter and place the buns cut side down. Toast until golden and crisp.
Assemble the Burgers:
Spread baconnaise on both bun halves. Layer the cheesy patty pickle chips and red onion. Cap with the top bun and serve hot.
Two smash burgers with baconnaise. Bookmark
Two smash burgers with baconnaise. | ioanacooks.com

You Must Know

I love how the bacon in the sauce adds both crunch and bold flavor. It reminds me of Sunday mornings growing up when everything smelled like bacon and comfort.

Storage Tips

Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to three days Baconnaise keeps well refrigerated for up to five days Reheat patties in a skillet for best texture avoid microwaving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cheddar with American for classic diner style Use ground turkey or plant based meat if preferred Lettuce wraps work well for a low carb version

Serving Suggestions

Serve with seasoned fries or grilled corn Add a side of coleslaw for cool crunch Pair with iced tea lemonade or craft beer

A close up of a burger with baconnaise. Bookmark
A close up of a burger with baconnaise. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

The smash burger originated from diners where speed and crust mattered Baconnaise draws inspiration from southern flavors where bacon is king This burger style reflects modern comfort food trends fast flavorful satisfying

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What makes smash burgers different from regular burgers?

Smash burgers are pressed flat on a hot griddle, creating a crispy crust through the Maillard reaction. This enhances flavor and texture.

→ Can I use another type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with American, gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese depending on your flavor preference.

→ What is baconnaise and how is it made?

Baconnaise is a sauce made from mayonnaise, chopped crispy bacon, mustard, paprika, and optionally bacon fat. It adds smoky, creamy richness.

→ Can I cook smash burgers without a griddle?

Yes, a cast iron skillet on the stovetop works well. Just make sure it's very hot to form a crust on the patties.

→ What sides go well with smash burgers?

Fries, sweet potato wedges, grilled corn, coleslaw, or pickled vegetables make great sides. Pair with beer, iced tea, or milkshakes.

Smash Burgers With Baconnaise

Crispy smash patties and smoky baconnaise make this burger an unforgettable comfort food favorite.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
10 minutes
Overall Time
20 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (4 assembled burgers)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients You'll Need

→ For the burgers

Ingredient 01 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
Ingredient 02 Salt to taste
Ingredient 03 Black pepper to taste
Ingredient 04 4 brioche burger buns
Ingredient 05 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
Ingredient 06 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Ingredient 07 Dill pickle chips to taste
Ingredient 08 1 tablespoon butter

→ For the baconnaise sauce

Ingredient 09 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Ingredient 10 3 slices cooked crispy bacon, finely chopped
Ingredient 11 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Ingredient 12 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Ingredient 13 1 tablespoon bacon fat (optional)
Ingredient 14 Salt to taste
Ingredient 15 Black pepper to taste

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and bacon fat if using. Season with salt and pepper and chill until needed.

Step 02

Preheat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.

Step 03

Form the ground beef into four loosely packed balls. Place each ball on the hot surface and smash flat using a heavy spatula or burger press. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Cook patties for 2 to 3 minutes until a crust forms. Flip, add a slice of cheddar cheese to each, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is melted and patties are cooked through.

Step 05

Toast brioche buns in butter until golden brown.

Step 06

Spread baconnaise on both bun halves. Layer with a burger patty, pickle chips, and red onion slices. Close with the top bun and serve hot.

Extra Tips

  1. Do not overwork the beef when forming patties to maintain tenderness.

Tools You'll Need

  • Griddle or cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula or burger press
  • Mixing bowl

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cheddar cheese and butter
  • Contains eggs from mayonnaise
  • Contains gluten from brioche buns

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 625
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Carbohydrate Amount: ~
  • Protein Amount: ~