Crispy Edges, Juicy Centers, and an Addictive Sauce You’ll Make Again and Again
If you’re craving a burger with ultra-crispy edges, juicy beef, and a bold, creamy sauce that takes everything up a notch, Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce are exactly what you need. This burger style has exploded in popularity for a reason: smashing the beef creates intense browning, unbeatable flavor, and a diner-style experience at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect smash burgers step by step, plus a rich, smoky baconnaise sauce that turns a great burger into an unforgettable one.
What Makes Smash Burgers So Good?
Smash burgers are all about maximum surface contact. Instead of thick patties, loosely packed beef balls are smashed directly onto a hot cooking surface.
Why Smashing Works
Creates deep caramelization (Maillard reaction)
Locks in juices
Delivers crispy edges with tender centers
When paired with creamy baconnaise sauce, the result is bold, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients for Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
For the Smash Burgers
Ground beef (80/20 fat ratio is ideal)
Salt and black pepper
Burger buns (brioche or potato buns work best)
American or cheddar cheese slices
Butter or oil for the pan
Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
Dill pickles
Thinly sliced onions
Shredded lettuce
Tomato slices
For the Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Mayonnaise
Crispy cooked bacon, finely chopped
Bacon grease (optional, for extra flavor)
Dijon or yellow mustard
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Black pepper
Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
This sauce is smoky, tangy, creamy, and downright addictive.
How to Make Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon until deeply crispy. Drain on paper towels and finely chop. Reserve a small amount of bacon grease if desired.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine:
Mayonnaise
Chopped bacon
A teaspoon of bacon grease (optional)
Mustard
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Black pepper
A splash of lemon juice or vinegar
Stir well and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers. The flavor improves as it rests.
How to Make Perfect Smash Burgers
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Use a cast iron skillet or flat griddle. Heat over high heat until very hot.
Step 2: Form the Beef Balls
Lightly roll ground beef into loose balls (about 2–3 oz each). Don’t overwork the meat.
Step 3: Smash and Season
Place a beef ball on the hot pan. Immediately smash it flat using a spatula or burger press. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Cook Until Crispy
Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
Step 5: Flip and Add Cheese
Flip once, add cheese, and cook for another 60–90 seconds until melted.
Toasting the Buns (Don’t Skip This!)
Lightly butter the buns and toast them cut-side down on the pan until golden. Toasted buns hold the sauce better and add extra flavor.
Assembling Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce
Layer in this order for the best bite:
Bottom bun
Creamy baconnaise sauce
Smash burger patty
Pickles and onions
Extra sauce (because why not?)
Top bun
Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Pro Tips for Next-Level Smash Burgers
Use High Heat
Smash burgers need serious heat to develop their signature crust.
Don’t Press After Flipping
Pressing after flipping squeezes out juices—smash once, then leave it alone.
Keep Patties Thin
Thin patties = more browning = more flavor.
Make Extra Sauce
Creamy baconnaise sauce is incredible on fries, sandwiches, wraps, and grilled vegetables.
Delicious Variations to Try
Double Smash Burgers
Stack two patties with extra cheese and sauce for a true diner-style burger.
Spicy Baconnaise
Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce for heat.
BBQ Smash Burgers
Mix a little BBQ sauce into the baconnaise for smoky-sweet flavor.
Low-Carb Option
Skip the bun and serve the burger over lettuce with sauce drizzled on top.
What to Serve with Smash Burgers
Smash burgers pair perfectly with:
Crispy fries or shoestring fries
Sweet potato fries
Onion rings
Coleslaw
Pickles and chips
Add a cold drink, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Burger
Smash Burgers with Creamy Baconnaise Sauce are everything a great burger should be—crispy, juicy, rich, and packed with flavor. They’re fast enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and customizable to suit any craving.
Once you master this method, regular burgers just won’t hit the same. 🔥🍔