Whipped Feta Bacon Smash Burgers

This juicy smash burger recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The combination of whipped feta, garlic butter, and crispy bacon creates layers of flavor that elevate these burgers beyond the ordinary.

I first made these burgers when friends unexpectedly stopped by for dinner, and they've become my signature dish ever since. The whipped feta brings a tangy creaminess that perfectly cuts through the richness of the beef and bacon.

Ingredients

• Ground beef with 80/20 fat ratio ensures juicy burgers that won't dry out
• Thick cut bacon adds a smoky crunch and depth of flavor
• Brioche buns provide a slightly sweet, buttery base that toasts beautifully
• Feta cheese brings tangy flavor that balances the rich meat
• Cream cheese helps create a smooth, spreadable texture for the whipped feta
• Fresh garlic adds aromatic punch to both the butter and whipped feta
• Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning level
• Olive oil prevents the butter from burning at high heat
• Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the beef's natural flavors
• Fresh garnishes add brightness and crunch to the finished burger

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the whipped feta:

Combine feta, cream cheese, and minced garlic in a food processor or bowl. Blend or whip vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no large chunks remaining. The texture should be spreadable but still hold its shape. This can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Cook the bacon:

Place bacon strips in a cold skillet, then turn to medium heat. Allow them to cook slowly until they reach your desired crispness, usually about 8 minutes, turning occasionally. The slow cooking renders more fat and creates perfectly crispy bacon. Save that liquid gold bacon grease for cooking the burgers.

Prepare the garlic butter:

In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add olive oil and butter, then allow them to melt together. The oil helps prevent the butter from burning while adding flavor. The residual bacon flavor infuses into this mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Form the patties:

Divide your ground beef into four equal portions without overworking the meat. Form them into loose balls and season generously with salt and pepper. Keep the meat cold until the last possible moment for the best texture.

Smash and cook:

Place a beef ball into the hot skillet with melted butter and oil. Immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to create a thin patty about half an inch thick. The edges should be irregular for maximum crispy surface area. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until deeply browned with crispy edges.

Flip and finish:

Carefully flip the patty once the bottom has developed a dark crust. Cook for just another minute or two on the second side. The burger should have a beautiful crust while remaining juicy inside. Repeat with remaining meat.

Toast the buns:

Place brioche buns cut side down in the remaining pan drippings until golden brown, about 30 seconds. The toasting creates a barrier that prevents the buns from becoming soggy and adds flavor from the seasoned skillet.

Assemble your masterpiece:

Spread a generous layer of whipped feta on the bottom bun. Place the hot burger patty on top, followed by crispy bacon slices. Add any optional garnishes like lettuce, tomato, or onion, then crown with the top bun.

Bookmark

My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the whipped feta. I discovered it by accident when I ran out of cheese slices one night and needed to improvise. The creamy, tangy spread has become my secret weapon for all kinds of sandwiches and burgers.

Perfect Pairings

These flavorful burgers pair beautifully with crispy hand cut fries or a simple green salad. For drinks, try a hoppy IPA or a bright, acidic lemonade to cut through the richness. The combination of cold beer and hot, juicy burgers creates the perfect balance for a casual dinner.

Storage and Reheating

While these burgers are best enjoyed fresh, you can store components separately if needed. The whipped feta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container. Cooked patties can be refrigerated for two days and gently reheated in a skillet over medium low heat. For best results, store the burger elements separately and assemble just before eating.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Try adding caramelized onions for sweetness, swapping the bacon for prosciutto, or mixing herbs into the whipped feta. For a spicy version, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the feta mixture. You can even use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, though you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat for moisture.

Recipe Q&A

→ What makes smash burgers different from regular burgers?

Smash burgers are distinctive because the meat is pressed firmly against a hot cooking surface, creating maximum contact for an exceptional crust while keeping the interior juicy. The thin patty cooks quickly and develops crispy, caramelized edges that regular thick burgers don't achieve. For this recipe, the 80/20 beef blend provides the perfect fat content for flavor and juiciness.

→ Can I prepare the whipped feta mixture in advance?

Yes! The whipped feta mixture can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly much quicker when you're ready to cook. For best results, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using so it spreads more easily on the buns.

→ What can I substitute for brioche buns?

While brioche adds a buttery, slightly sweet flavor that complements these burgers beautifully, you can substitute potato rolls, pretzel buns, or regular hamburger buns. For a lower-carb option, try lettuce wraps or portobello mushroom caps. Whatever you choose, toasting the buns in the residual bacon fat adds extra flavor.

→ How do I get the perfect smash burger texture?

For perfect smash burgers, start with a very hot cast-iron skillet or griddle. Form the meat into loose balls without overworking it, then place them in the hot pan and immediately press down firmly with a spatula or dedicated burger press. The patty should be thin (about ¼-inch thick) with slightly jagged edges that will crisp up. Only flip once, and never press down after flipping.

→ What sides pair well with these burgers?

These rich, flavorful burgers pair wonderfully with crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings. For lighter options, consider a fresh green salad with vinaigrette, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. The tanginess of pickles also complements the rich flavors of the burger, as does a cold beer or sparkling beverage to cut through the richness.

→ Can I make these burgers without bacon?

Absolutely! While the bacon adds smoky flavor and crispy texture, you can omit it for a vegetarian version by adding more butter and perhaps a dash of smoked paprika to maintain depth of flavor. For those avoiding pork, turkey bacon or beef bacon make good substitutes. The whipped feta and garlic butter will still provide plenty of rich flavor.