If you crave a burger that perfectly balances bold smoky flavors with melty cheddar cheese, the Chipotle Bacon Cheddar Smash Burger is your dream come true. Each bite delivers the satisfying crisp of smashed edges with the deep richness of chipotle-infused beef and savory bacon, finished with a creamy smoky ranch drizzle that elevates it to restaurant-quality indulgence.
This recipe is designed for home chefs who appreciate mastering techniques like smashing burgers on a flat top grill to achieve that perfect crust and juiciness inside. From mixing the seasoned beef to melting cheddar cheese with steam, let this guide show you how to create a gourmet burger experience right from your kitchen.
- Bold chipotle heat combined with smoky bacon flavor makes each bite addictive.
- Smash technique creates irresistibly crispy edges with a juicy center.
- Smoky ranch drizzle adds creamy tang and depth, finishing the burger perfectly.
- Simple steps that capture restaurant-quality flavor with common ingredients.
- Perfect for flat top grills, cast iron, or heavy skillet cooking at home.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend): Juicy, well-marbled beef ideal for rich flavor and tender texture in smashed patties.
- Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled): Adds smoky, salty crunch and depth, infusing the burger with authentic bacon flavor.
- Chipotle Pepper in Adobo (1 minced): Provides a smoky, spicy kick that blends seamlessly into the beef for boldness.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Enhances savoriness with subtle aromatic notes that complement smoky flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential to season the beef properly and balance the savory ingredients.
- Cheddar Cheese Slices (4 slices): Melts perfectly over patties, adding creamy, sharp flavor to each bite.
- Hamburger Buns or Texas Toast (4 pieces): Toasted to golden brown for a sturdy yet soft foundation for the burger.
- Ranch Dressing (1/2 cup): Creamy base for the smoky ranch drizzle that finishes the burger with tang.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Stirred into ranch dressing to lend a warm, smoky undertone to the drizzle.
- Bacon Grease: Used sparingly to cook patties, enhancing the smoky bacon flavor and preventing sticking.
- Optional Seasonings (ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ beef rub): For extra flavor depth tailored to taste preferences.
Instructions
- Combine Ground Beef and Seasonings
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly. This ensures each patty is well-seasoned with balanced flavor that highlights the beef’s natural richness.
- Add Bacon and Chipotle
Fold in the crumbled cooked bacon and minced chipotle pepper carefully. These ingredients bring bold smoky and spicy notes and should be distributed gently to avoid overworking the meat.
- Form Loose Meatballs and Chill
Shape the mixture into four loosely packed balls. Chilling them for 15-20 minutes helps the patties hold their shape under high heat, promoting even cooking and crisp edges.
- Preheat Flat Top Grill and Season with Bacon Grease
Heat your flat top grill or cast iron skillet to high heat and lightly grease with bacon grease. This fat adds authentic flavor and prevents the meat from sticking while allowing a crispy crust to develop.
- Smash Patties Firmly and Cook First Side
Place each ball onto the hot surface, then immediately smash it down with a heavy spatula. Press firmly for 10-15 seconds to maximize contact and create those signature crispy edges that define a smash burger.
- Season and Cook First Side Undisturbed
Lightly season the exposed smashed side with salt and pepper. Cook for 60-90 seconds without moving to let a golden crust form and to lock in the juices beneath the crispy exterior.
- Flip Patties and Add Cheese Slices
Flip the patties carefully and quickly top each with a slice of cheddar cheese. Adding cheese now prevents it from drying out and ensures it melts evenly over the warm surface.
- Steam Cheese for Perfect Melt
Add a splash of water to the grill and cover briefly. This creates steam that melts the cheese thoroughly and evenly without overcooking the meat, giving you gooey, flavorful cheeseburgers.
- Toast Buns or Texas Toast
Toast the buns or Texas toast on a medium heat zone of the grill until golden and slightly crispy. This adds texture and prevents sogginess from burger juices.
- Assemble Burgers with Smoky Ranch Drizzle
Whisk the ranch dressing with smoked paprika to create a smoky ranch drizzle. Spread or drizzle this over your assembled burgers for a creamy, tangy finish that ties all flavors together beautifully.
- Serve Immediately with Sides
Serve the burgers hot with crispy fries or fresh slaw to complement the smoky, rich flavors. Enjoy your homemade gourmet smash burger experience.
- Use an 80/20 beef blend for optimal balance of juiciness and flavor.
- Don’t overwork the meat to keep patties tender and avoid toughness.
- High heat and firm pressing ensure signature crispy edges and juicy interiors.
- Chilling formed meatballs prevents them from falling apart during the smash.
- Steaming cheese with water under a cover melts it perfectly and quickly.
- Bacon grease is flavorful but should be used sparingly to avoid excess fat.
Storage Tips
Cooked patties can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze patties for up to 5 months, thawing completely before reheating on the grill for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these smoky, savory burgers with crispy fries, tangy coleslaw, or a simple green salad. Add pickles or sliced onions for extra crunch and flavor contrast that complements the rich patties.
- Use a heavy spatula or burger press for the best smash results.
- Warming buns briefly keeps them soft while absorbing burger juices.
- Customize the smoky ranch drizzle by adding garlic powder or cayenne for extra kick.
- Allow burgers to rest for a minute after cooking to redistribute juices evenly.
FAQs
- What is the best beef blend for smash burgers?
Use an 80/20 ground beef blend to ensure a juicy, flavorful patty that crisps nicely.
- Can I cook these burgers without a flat top grill?
Yes, a cast iron skillet or heavy pan on high heat works well to achieve a similar crust.
- How do I control the spiciness in this recipe?
Adjust the amount of minced chipotle pepper or omit it to reduce heat according to your taste.
- Why is it important to chill the meatballs before cooking?
Chilling helps the patties hold their shape when smashed and cooked on high heat.
- Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, other melty cheeses like American, pepper jack, or smoked gouda also work great.
- How do I make the smoky ranch drizzle?
Simply whisk ranch dressing with smoked paprika until combined, then drizzle over assembled burgers.
- How do I reheat leftover smash burgers?
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep patties juicy and prevent overcooking the cheese.
Chipotle Bacon Cheddar Smash Burger
Equipment
- 1 flat top grill or heavy skillet
- 1 heavy spatula for smashing burgers
- 1 bowl
- 1 whisk
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns or Texas toast
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Bacon grease for cooking
- Optional: ranch seasoning Worcestershire sauce, BBQ beef rub
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Fold in crumbled bacon and minced chipotle pepper evenly.
- Form the mixture into 4 loose balls without overworking the meat.
- Chill the meat balls for 15-20 minutes to hold their shape.
- Preheat the flat top grill to high heat and grease it with bacon grease.
- Place the meat balls on the hot grill and immediately smash them with a heavy spatula.
- Press firmly for 10-15 seconds to create thin, crispy edges.
- Season the exposed side lightly, then cook for 60-90 seconds without moving.
- Flip the patties and immediately top each with a slice of cheddar cheese.
- Add a splash of water to the grill and cover briefly to steam and melt the cheese.
- Whisk ranch dressing with smoked paprika to make a smoky ranch drizzle.
- Toast buns or Texas toast on a medium heat zone until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers by placing patties on buns and drizzling with smoky ranch.
- Serve immediately with crispy fries or slaw.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and juiciness.
- Avoid overworking meat mixture to keep burgers tender.
- High heat and firm smash creates crispy edges.
- Bacon grease adds authentic flavor—use sparingly.
- Chilling meat balls helps maintain shape during cooking.
- Steam cheese melts evenly under water splash and cover.
- Store cooked patties refrigerated up to 5 days, frozen up to 5 months.
