The Ultimate BBQ Bacon Smash Burger: Crispy Edges, Smoky Flavor, Pure Perfection

Get ready to experience burger bliss like never before. This isn’t just any burger; it’s the definitive BBQ Bacon Smash Burger, designed to deliver maximum flavor with every bite. Imagine perfectly caramelized patties, smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheese all sandwiched between a toasted brioche bun. Forget your old burger recipes; this one will instantly become your go-to for an epic meal. And if you’re a fan of loaded burgers, you’ll find this recipe just as satisfying as any decadent Cheesy BBQ Bacon Burger you’ve ever dreamed of. Let’s get smashing!

Quick Glance Summary

This BBQ Bacon Smash Burger recipe takes the classic smash burger concept to new heights with the irresistible combination of smoky bacon and sweet-tangy BBQ sauce. Featuring ultra-thin, crispy-edged beef patties, melted cheddar, and fresh toppings on a toasted brioche bun, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in just 20 minutes of active prep time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe yields 4 generous servings of pure deliciousness.

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to create these sensational burgers:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 chuck preferred for flavor and fat content)
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, American, etc.)
• 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 leaves butter lettuce
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened, for toasting buns
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Pickles, extra BBQ sauce, or jalapeño slices for serving

Preparation Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect BBQ Bacon Smash Burger. The key is in the smash!

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, drain on paper towels, and chop into small pieces. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Prepare the Beef: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal balls, about 3 ounces each. Season each ball generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Do not overwork the meat.
3. Toast the Buns: Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns. Heat a clean griddle or skillet over medium heat. Place the buns cut-side down and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
4. Smash the Burgers: Increase the heat of your cast-iron skillet or griddle to high. Once it’s smoking hot, place two beef balls onto the surface, ensuring they are spaced apart. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper over each ball and use a sturdy spatula or a bacon press to firmly smash each ball flat into a thin patty, about 1/4-inch thick. Press down for 10-15 seconds to maximize contact with the hot surface.
5. Cook the Patties: Cook the smashed patties for 2-3 minutes until the edges are deep brown and crispy. Flip the patties, immediately place a slice of cheese on one of the patties (if making a double stack, put cheese on both or one for each layer), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through. The thinness means they cook very quickly. Repeat with the remaining beef balls.
6. Assemble Your Burgers: Spread a generous amount of BBQ sauce on both the top and bottom toasted buns. On the bottom bun, layer with fresh lettuce, then two cheesy BBQ Bacon Smash Burger patties, followed by a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, and thin slices of red onion. Top with the other bun.
7. Serve Immediately: These burgers are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the griddle. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a burger that rivals any restaurant-quality Cheesy BBQ Bacon Burger.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Elevate your burger experience with these creative variations and side dishes:

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
• Onion Perfection: Instead of raw red onion, caramelize the red onions in the bacon fat for a sweet and savory addition.
• Avocado Love: A few slices of fresh avocado or a dollop of guacamole add a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Fried Egg: Top your smash burger with a perfectly fried egg for a decadent brunch or dinner option.
• Side Dishes: Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh coleslaw, or classic onion rings for a complete meal.

Reviews

Sarah L. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This BBQ Bacon Smash Burger recipe is a game-changer! The crispy edges on the patties are incredible, and the bacon-BBQ combo is pure genius. My family absolutely devoured them.”

Mark T. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’ve made smash burgers before, but adding the bacon and BBQ sauce like this made all the difference. It’s so much better than any restaurant burger. Definitely my new go-to recipe!”

Jessica P. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“So easy and so delicious! I was worried about smashing the burgers, but the instructions were perfect. It truly is a superior burger, even better than many fancy Cheesy BBQ Bacon Burger recipes I’ve tried.”

FAQ

Q: What kind of beef is best for smash burgers?
A: For the best flavor and juiciness, use ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio (80% lean, 20% fat). This fat content helps create those crispy, caramelized edges without drying out the patty.

Q: Can I use a regular frying pan instead of a cast-iron skillet?
A: While a cast-iron skillet or griddle is ideal for its ability to retain and distribute high heat, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel frying pan can also work. Just ensure it’s smoking hot before you add the beef to get that characteristic smash burger crust.

Q: How do I get the patties really thin and crispy?
A: The key is a very hot cooking surface and firm, quick pressure when smashing the beef balls. Use a sturdy metal spatula or a bacon press and press down for a full 10-15 seconds to ensure maximum contact and thinness.

Q: Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
A: You can cook and chop the bacon a day in advance. You can also slice the onions and wash the lettuce. However, the beef balls should be formed just before cooking, and the burgers assembled immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Q: What if I don’t have a burger press?
A: A sturdy, flat metal spatula works perfectly. You can also use the bottom of a small, heavy saucepan or a strong, clean pot. Just make sure to use parchment paper between the beef and your smashing tool to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate guide to crafting a mouth-watering BBQ Bacon Smash Burger that will satisfy even the most discerning burger connoisseur. With its irresistible crispy edges, juicy patties, and the perfect blend of smoky bacon and tangy BBQ, this recipe proves that simplicity can indeed lead to culinary perfection. Whether you’re a smash burger novice or a seasoned grill master, these steps will help you create a burger experience that’s truly unforgettable, rivalling even the most elaborate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Burger. So fire up that griddle and get ready to enjoy the best burger you’ve ever made at home!

Recipe Note

For an even more intense flavor, try making your own homemade BBQ sauce! It allows you to customize the sweetness and tanginess to perfectly complement the savory bacon and beef. Alternatively, choose a high-quality, smoky store-bought sauce.