Oh boy, do I get excited when it comes to burgers! There’s just something about a perfectly cooked smash burger with that crispy, caramelized crust that brings back the best summer BBQ memories. I can almost hear the sizzle and smell the smoke wafting through the air! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my go-to recipe for Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce. Trust me, once you’ve tried this, you might just find yourself contemplating life while standing at your griddle. Yep, it’s that good!
The star of the show here is the Baconnaise sauce – a delectable mix of mayonnaise and bacon that gives these burgers a flavor bomb that elevates them to a whole new level. I first concocted this sauce one lazy Sunday and ended up putting it on everything from sandwiches to fries (who knew, right?). The combination of flavors is simply irresistible. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure together!
What’s in Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce?
Ground Beef (80/20 blend): This blend strikes the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. Using an 80/20 ratio means you get a rich, tasty burger without turning into a grease trap.
Salt and Pepper: Ah, the dynamic duo of seasoning! Don’t underestimate these simple spices; they bring out the best in your ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Four glorious slices of cheddar make everything better. I love a good sharp cheddar for that extra punch, but feel free to use your favorite kind!
Onion: One large onion, when caramelized, creates that sweet, savory addition we all crave on a burger. It’s like flavor confetti.
Semosa Seed Burger Buns: You can’t go wrong with a classic! These buns are the perfect vehicle for all those glorious toppings and juicy patties.
Butter: For toasting the buns, because let’s face it – butter makes everything better!
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of our baconnaise sauce. Use a high-quality mayo for maximum flavor!
Bacon: Cooked bacon, finely chopped, adds that irresistible crunch and intricate flavor profile. I’m partial to the crispy kind for this recipe.
Dijon Mustard: Just a tablespoon of this zesty mustard adds a surprising kick to our sauce!
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens up the sauce perfectly without overpowering it.
Garlic Powder: A pinch of this aromatic spice adds depth to the sauce—who doesn’t love garlic?
Is Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health. Smash burgers definitely lean toward the indulgent side of things, but that doesn’t mean you should skip them entirely!
Ground Beef: With that juicy 80/20 blend, you’re treating yourself to a protein-packed meal, which is great for muscle recovery and overall health. Just remember to enjoy in moderation!
Baconnaise Sauce: This sauce does contain mayonnaise and bacon, so while it’s delicious, it’s also a bit rich. I encourage you to savor it rather than drench your burger.
Onions: These caramelized gems bring some fiber and antioxidants to the mix.
In short, these burgers are a delightful treat for special occasions or when you need a little culinary cheer!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 sesame seed burger buns
– Butter for toasting the buns
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
This recipe serves 4, so gather your loved ones for a burger feast!
How to Make Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce?
1. **Prepare the Baconnaise Sauce**: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside in the refrigerator to let those flavors meld like old friends at a reunion.
2. **Cook the Onions**: Grab a skillet or griddle and put it over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter and toss in those thinly sliced onions. Sauté until they turn caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Set them aside and try not to nibble on them all (but I understand if you do!).
3. **Form and Cook the Patties**: Divide your ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Roll each portion into a ball, but don’t compact it too much. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle to high heat and pour in a little oil. Place the beef balls on the skillet and get smashing with a spatula to form thin patties. Season those beauties with salt and pepper.
4. **Add Cheese**: Cook the patties for about 2 minutes until a flavorful crust forms. Flip them over and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes until melted to gooey perfection.
5. **Toast the Buns**: Time to butter up those sesame seed burger buns and toast them in a separate pan or griddle until golden brown. Isn’t it satisfying to watch that golden shine?
6. **Assemble the Burgers**: On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place the cheesy smash burger patty. Top it generously with your baconnaise sauce and a generous amount of caramelized onions. Cap it off with the top half of the bun and congratulate yourself!
7. **Serve**: Serve the smash burgers hot off the skillet with extra baconnaise sauce on the side because everyone needs a little dipping joy in their life. Enjoy!
Variations and Burger Bliss
Now that you’ve mastered the basic recipe, let your creativity shine! Want to spice things up? Try adding jalapeños or switch out the bacon for crispy fried onions. You can experiment with different cheeses – Swiss or pepper jack would both be fabulous choices!
If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some avocado or a fried egg on top. The possibilities are endless, and I’d love to hear how your burgers turned out.
Finally, I encourage you to share your burger creations with friends (and me!). It’s a fantastic way to bring loved ones together and brighten up any day. Remember, life’s too short for mediocre burgers, so let’s get smashing!