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This juicy smash burger recipe with homemade bacon mayo sauce transforms ordinary burgers into a decadent restaurant-quality meal at home. The technique of smashing the patties creates those irresistible crispy edges while keeping the interior tender and flavorful.
I developed this recipe after my family kept requesting diner-style burgers at home. After several attempts, this version with the bacon-infused sauce became an instant favorite that friends now specifically request when they visit.
Ingredients
- Ground chuck: 80/20 fat content ensures juicy burgers with the perfect amount of flavor
- White onions: Create a sweet caramelized flavor when cooked with the patties
- Crispy bacon: Adds smoky depth to both the burger and signature sauce
- Salt pepper garlic: Seasonings enhance the beef without overpowering
- Mustard: Helps create a delicious crust when the patties are flipped
- Pepper jack cheese: Provides the perfect melt with a mild kick of heat
- Burger buns: Toasted for texture contrast and to prevent sogginess
- Avocado oil: Has a high smoke point perfect for the hot griddle
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Form the Patties:
- Take your ground chuck and form into 1/3 pound balls without overworking the meat. The looser the balls, the more tender your final burger will be. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them maintain shape during the smashing process.
- Prepare the Onions:
- Slice white onions paper thin using a mandoline for consistency. This allows them to cook quickly and caramelize perfectly. After slicing, gently squeeze out excess moisture which helps them brown faster on the griddle.
- Make the Bacon:
- Cook bacon until extremely crispy as it will be incorporated into the sauce. The crispier the bacon, the better texture it provides in the finished Baconnaise. Chop finely after cooling.
- Create the Baconnaise Sauce:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl, ensuring the bacon is evenly distributed throughout. The combination of creamy mayo, tangy mustard, sweet ketchup and savory bacon creates the perfect burger complement. Allow to chill for flavors to meld.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Heat your griddle to medium high heat. Add a thin layer of avocado oil then place the burger balls with plenty of space between them. Immediately top with thin onions and use a heavy spatula or burger press to firmly smash the patties to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Finish and Assemble:
- After the first side develops a deep crust about 3 4 minutes, spread mustard on the uncooked side, then flip. Add cheese immediately so it melts completely. Toast the buns directly on the griddle. Assemble with Baconnaise on both buns and enjoy while hot.
The Baconnaise sauce actually improves with flavor when made a day ahead. The bacon infuses the mayo mixture with more smoky depth when allowed to rest overnight in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Customization Ideas
While pepper jack cheese provides a nice mild heat, feel free to substitute any good melting cheese like American, cheddar or Swiss based on your preference. For a more gourmet version, add caramelized onions and mushrooms sautéed in butter and thyme.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers pair perfectly with thin and crispy french fries or sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Pickle spears on the side provide a tangy contrast that complements the fatty burger beautifully.
The Secret to Perfect Smash Burgers
The key technique for authentic smash burgers is pressing them only once at the beginning of cooking when the meat is cold. Pressing repeatedly during cooking pushes out precious juices. Allow the burger to develop a crust undisturbed for the best texture and flavor contrast between the crispy exterior and juicy interior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of beef works best for smash burgers?
Use 80/20 ground chuck for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. This ratio ensures crispy edges while keeping the burger moist.
- → How can I make the onions thinner?
Using a mandoline slicer is the best way to achieve ultra-thin onion slices. Always use the guard or protective gloves for safety.
- → Can I substitute pepper jack cheese?
Yes, you can use cheddar, American, or even Swiss cheese depending on your taste preferences. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
- → How do you make the Baconnaise sauce at home?
Mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, crispy bacon, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, all-purpose rub, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready.
- → What is the best way to toast burger buns?
Toast burger buns on a griddle with a bit of butter or avocado oil for a golden, crispy texture. This also enhances flavor.