Smash Burgers Baconnaise: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciousness

Smash Burgers Baconnaise: Get ready to experience burger bliss! Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, perfectly seared smash burger, elevated to a whole new level with a creamy, smoky, bacon-infused baconnaise. This isn’t just a burger; it’s an explosion of flavor that will have you craving more.

The smash burger technique, born from a desire for maximum crust and flavor, has taken the culinary world by storm. By smashing the patty thin on a hot griddle, you create an incredible Maillard reaction, resulting in a deeply caramelized, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. But what truly sets this recipe apart is the baconnaise – a decadent mayonnaise amped up with crispy bacon and smoky undertones.

Mayonnaise, a condiment with French origins, has become a global staple, loved for its creamy texture and versatility. Adding bacon, a universally adored ingredient, transforms it into something truly special. People adore this Smash Burgers Baconnaise combination because it’s the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The crispy burger, the soft bun, and the creamy, smoky baconnaise create a symphony in your mouth. It’s also incredibly convenient – a restaurant-quality burger you can easily make at home. So, ditch the drive-thru and prepare to create the ultimate burger experience with this incredible Smash Burgers Baconnaise recipe!

Ingredients:

• For the Smash Burgers:
• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for optimal flavor and fat content)
• 4 Brioche Buns, split
• 4 slices American Cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper, to taste
• Optional Toppings: Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles
• For the Baconnaise:
• 6 slices Bacon, cooked until crispy
• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a little kick)

Preparing the Baconnaise:

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the Baconnaise! This stuff is seriously addictive, and you’ll want to put it on everything. Trust me on this one.

1. Cook the Bacon: First things first, we need crispy bacon. Cook your bacon using your preferred method – whether it’s in a skillet, in the oven, or even in the microwave. The key is to get it nice and crispy so it crumbles easily. I personally prefer cooking it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This gives you even cooking and less mess.
2. Crumble the Bacon: Once the bacon is cool enough to handle, crumble it into small pieces. You can use your hands, a fork, or even a food processor for this. Just be careful not to over-process it into a powder. We want some texture!
3. Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Add the Bacon: Now, gently fold in the crumbled bacon. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mayonnaise mixture.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Baconnaise for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the Baconnaise to thicken slightly. You can even make it a day ahead of time for even better flavor!

Smashing the Burgers:

Now for the fun part – smashing those burgers! This technique is what gives smash burgers their signature crispy edges and juicy centers. Don’t be shy; really get in there and smash ’em good!

1. Prepare the Beef: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Don’t pack the beef too tightly, as this will make the burgers tough.
2. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up until it’s shimmering. You want the skillet to be nice and hot so the burgers get a good sear.
3. Smash the Burgers: Place two of the beef balls onto the hot skillet, leaving some space between them. Immediately use a sturdy metal spatula (a burger press works great too!) to smash each ball down into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. The thinner, the better!
4. Season Generously: While the burgers are smashing, season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be afraid to use a good amount of seasoning – it’s crucial for flavor.
5. Cook the First Side: Let the burgers cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, or until a crispy brown crust forms on the bottom. You should see the edges starting to get lacy and caramelized.
6. Scrape and Flip: Use your spatula to carefully scrape the burgers off the skillet and flip them over. The crust should be beautifully browned and crispy.
7. Cook the Second Side: Cook the second side for another 1-2 minutes, or until the burgers are cooked through to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, aim for 135-140°F (57-60°C).
8. Add the Cheese: In the last 30 seconds of cooking, place a slice of American cheese (or your cheese of choice) on top of each burger. Let the cheese melt and get nice and gooey.
9. Repeat: Remove the burgers from the skillet and set aside. Repeat the process with the remaining beef balls.

Assembling the Smash Burgers:

Almost there! Now it’s time to assemble these bad boys and get ready to devour them. This is where you can really customize your burger with your favorite toppings.

1. Toast the Buns: While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the brioche buns. You can do this in a toaster, in the oven, or even in the same skillet you used for the burgers. Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy and adds a nice textural contrast.
2. Spread the Baconnaise: Spread a generous amount of Baconnaise on both the top and bottom buns. Don’t be shy – this is what makes the burger so special!
3. Assemble the Burgers: Place the cheesy burger patties on the bottom buns.
4. Add Toppings (Optional): Add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Get creative and add whatever you like!
5. Top and Serve: Place the top buns on the burgers and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Smash Burgers with Baconnaise!

Tips for the Best Smash Burgers:

• Use High-Quality Ground Beef: The quality of your ground beef will greatly impact the flavor of your burgers. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and fat content.
• Don’t Overwork the Beef: When forming the beef balls, be gentle and avoid overworking the meat. Overworking the beef will make the burgers tough.
• Get the Skillet Hot: A hot skillet is essential for getting a good sear on the burgers. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef.
• Smash ‘Em Thin: The thinner the burgers, the crispier the edges. Don’t be afraid to really smash them down!
• Season Generously: Season the burgers generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Smash burgers cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
• Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy and adds a nice textural contrast.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different toppings and variations of the Baconnaise. Have fun and make it your own!

Variations:

• Spicy Baconnaise: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Baconnaise for a little extra heat.
• Garlic Baconnaise: Add an extra clove of minced garlic to the Baconnaise for a more intense garlic flavor.
• Maple Baconnaise: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the Baconnaise for a touch of sweetness.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack.
• Different Toppings: Try adding different toppings, such as caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or avocado.

Storage:

Leftover Baconnaise can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Leftover cooked burgers can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the burgers in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s recap why this Smash Burgers Baconnaise recipe is about to become your new burger obsession. We’re talking about a flavor explosion that elevates the humble smash burger to gourmet status. The smoky bacon, the creamy mayonnaise, the tangy kick – it all comes together in a symphony of deliciousness that you simply have to experience to believe. Forget boring condiments; this baconnaise is the real deal.

But it’s not just about the taste (though, let’s be honest, that’s a huge part of it!). It’s about the ease of preparation. Seriously, this recipe is so simple, even a kitchen novice can whip it up in minutes. And the payoff? Unbelievable. You’ll be the hero of your next barbecue, the envy of your friends, and the master of your own burger destiny.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Now, let’s talk about how to unleash the full potential of this baconnaise. Obviously, it’s phenomenal on smash burgers. I personally love it with a classic American cheese, crispy lettuce, and juicy tomato. But don’t stop there! This baconnaise is incredibly versatile.

* Dip it! Serve it as a dip for sweet potato fries, onion rings, or even crudités. The smoky, savory flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes and the richness of the fried snacks.
* Spread it! Use it as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or even grilled cheese. Imagine a turkey and swiss with a generous layer of this baconnaise – pure heaven!
* Top it! Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even a baked potato. It adds a burst of flavor that will transform any dish.
* Spice it up! For a little extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the baconnaise.
* Herb it up! Mix in some fresh chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
* Garlic it up! Add a clove of minced garlic for a bolder, more pungent flavor.

The possibilities are truly endless! Feel free to experiment and find your own favorite ways to use this amazing condiment. I’m confident that once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or the stovetop!), and get ready to experience the best smash burger of your life. I promise you won’t regret it. This Smash Burgers Baconnaise is more than just a recipe; it’s a flavor adventure waiting to happen.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What variations did you make? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of baconnaise lovers and inspire each other with new and exciting ways to enjoy this incredible condiment. Happy cooking!

---