Smash Burgers with BEEF Sauce (No Bacon) – The Ultimate Juicy Burger!

If you’re looking for a rich, juicy, and ultra-flavorful burger, this Smash Burger with BEEF Sauce is a must-try! Featuring crispy-edged beef patties, melted cheese, and a creamy, umami-packed BEEF sauce, this burger delivers a mouthwatering bite every time—without the bacon!

Perfect for a weeknight meal, game day, or whenever you’re craving a next-level homemade burger, this better-than-fast-food smash burger is easy to make and completely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, Juicy Smash Patties – Achieve the perfect crust with a simple smash technique.
Bold & Beefy Sauce – A creamy, smoky, umami-packed sauce made with beef drippings.
No Bacon, All Flavor – You won’t miss the bacon with this flavor-packed burger.
Fast & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Smash Burgers:

1 lb 80/20 ground beef (higher fat = juicier patties)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 brioche buns, toasted
1 tablespoon butter, for toasting

For the BEEF Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons beef drippings (from cooking the patties)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the BEEF Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayo, beef drippings, Dijon mustard, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Stir until smooth and set aside.

2. Shape & Smash the Patties

Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls.
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat.
Place a ball onto the hot skillet and smash it down firmly with a spatula (use parchment paper to prevent sticking).
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook for 2 minutes until crispy, then flip.
Add a slice of cheese on top and let it melt.
Repeat for the remaining patties.

3. Toast the Buns

Spread butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns.
Toast in the skillet until golden brown.

4. Assemble the Smash Burger

Spread BEEF sauce on both bun halves.
Stack two patties on the bottom bun.
Place the top bun over the patties.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with fries, onion rings, or a fresh side salad.
Add toppings like pickles, lettuce, or caramelized onions for extra texture.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerator: Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm patties in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness.

Ways to Customize

Make It Spicy – Add sriracha or hot sauce to the BEEF sauce.
Use Different Cheese – Try pepper jack, Swiss, or smoked gouda.
Add More Toppings – Try grilled mushrooms, pickles, or a fried egg.
Swap the Bun – Use pretzel buns or lettuce wraps for a different twist.

Why This Smash Burger is a Must-Try

This Smash Burger with BEEF Sauce is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, even without bacon! The crispy seared patties, melty cheese, and smoky beef sauce create the ultimate homemade burger experience.

So, fire up your skillet and make this mouthwatering smash burger today!

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