There’s something deeply satisfying about a perfectly cooked smash burger. The crisp, caramelized edges, juicy beef center, and molten layer of cheese all tucked inside a toasted bun make it a meal to remember. This recipe takes that experience a step further by adding a smoky, tangy baconnaise sauce that brings both richness and a kick of spice. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and designed for anyone who believes a burger should be more than just fast food.
What makes smash burgers so special is the technique. Instead of shaping thick patties, the beef is pressed hard against a hot surface, creating deep browning through the Maillard reaction. The contrast between crispy edges and a tender interior makes each bite irresistible. Pair that with pepper jack cheese, grilled onions, and a baconnaise sauce loaded with crispy bacon, and you have a burger worthy of center stage at any cookout or dinner table.
This recipe makes six burgers, but you may want to double it if you’re serving a crowd. The preparation involves a few steps, but each one is simple and results in an unforgettable burger experience.
Ingredients
For the Smash Burgers:
2 pounds ground chuck (80/20 blend), formed into six 1/3-pound balls
2 white onions, thinly sliced using a mandoline
½ pound bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, to taste
Yellow mustard (for cooking)
6 slices pepper jack cheese
6 burger buns, toasted
Avocado oil (for cooking)
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
½ pound crispy chopped bacon
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon all-purpose rub (a blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder)
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
Shape the ground chuck into six balls, each weighing about a third of a pound. Place them on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes so they firm up and hold their shape when smashed. Cook the bacon until crispy and chop it finely. Thinly slice the onions with a mandoline to ensure even cooking.
Make the baconnaise sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and the all-purpose rub. Stir in the red pepper flakes for heat. Finally, fold in the chopped crispy bacon. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. This sauce can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to deepen.
Cook the onions
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat with a touch of avocado oil. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they soften and caramelize to a golden brown. This can take about 15 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Smash the burgers
Increase the heat to high. Place two beef balls on the hot skillet at a time, leaving space between them. Using a sturdy metal spatula or burger press, press down firmly to flatten each ball into a thin patty. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Immediately spread a thin layer of mustard on the uncooked side. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned, then flip. Top each patty with pepper jack cheese and allow it to melt.
Assemble the burgers
Toast the buns lightly on the skillet until golden. Spread a generous layer of baconnaise sauce on the bottom bun. Add a scoop of caramelized onions, then place the cheesy smash burger patty on top. Sprinkle with chopped crispy bacon for extra crunch if desired. Finish with more sauce and the top bun. Serve immediately while hot.
Serving suggestions
These burgers pair beautifully with crispy fries, onion rings, or even a light salad if you want something refreshing to balance the richness. A cold beer, sparkling water, or homemade lemonade all make excellent drink pairings. For an extra indulgent spread, serve them alongside corn on the cob or baked potato wedges.
Tips and variations
Cheese options: Pepper jack adds a nice kick, but cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese work well if you want something milder.
Burger blend: Ground chuck is ideal, but adding brisket or short rib to the mix makes the patties even juicier.
Lighter version: Use turkey or chicken mince for the patties and replace baconnaise with a lighter yogurt-based sauce.
Extra toppings: Pickles, fresh lettuce, or sliced jalapeños add crunch and brightness.
Cooking method: While cast iron is best for creating the signature crust, you can also use a flat-top griddle outdoors for a backyard burger party.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Cooked patties can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on a hot skillet to revive the crust. The baconnaise sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it easy to prepare in advance. If you plan to freeze patties, do so before cooking. Form into balls, wrap individually, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before smashing and cooking.
Why smash burgers are so popular
The smash technique isn’t new—it has roots in diners and burger joints where speed and flavor were essential. Pressing the beef ensures maximum contact with the cooking surface, creating that signature crust without drying out the meat. This approach highlights the natural flavor of beef in a way thicker patties sometimes can’t match. When paired with creative sauces and toppings like baconnaise, the humble smash burger becomes a gourmet experience.
Baconnaise explained
Baconnaise is exactly what it sounds like: mayonnaise enhanced with bacon. In this recipe, it’s elevated further with ketchup, mustard, spices, and Worcestershire sauce for a balanced sauce that’s smoky, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy. It works not only on burgers but also as a dip for fries, spread for sandwiches, or even a drizzle over roasted vegetables.
Final thoughts
Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce bring together comfort and indulgence in a single bite. The crispy edges of the patties, melty cheese, sweet onions, and smoky, creamy sauce make for a combination that is both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a weekend cookout, or a game-day gathering, these burgers will always be the star of the table.
This recipe shows how a few simple ingredients, when treated with care and creativity, can turn into a memorable meal. It’s a reminder that cooking is about more than just feeding yourself—it’s about creating experiences worth savoring and sharing.