Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Whipped Feta: In a small bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic. Whip with a fork or small whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Step 2: Cook Bacon: Lay thick-cut bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until beautifully crispy. Remove bacon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Step 3: Prepare Skillet for Burgers: Add olive oil and unsalted butter to the skillet with reserved bacon grease. Melt together over medium heat, creating a flavorful base.
- Step 4: Cook Smash Burgers: Divide ground beef into four equal, loose portions. Season each ball generously with salt and pepper. Place one beef ball into the sizzling hot skillet and immediately smash it flat with a sturdy spatula or burger press. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and browned. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until desired doneness. Repeat for remaining portions.
- Step 5: Toast Buns: Toast brioche buns in the same skillet (after removing burger patties) or in the oven until lightly golden and warm.
- Step 6: Assemble and Serve: Spread a generous amount of whipped feta mixture on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Place a hot smash burger patty on top, then layer with crispy bacon. Add optional lettuce, tomato, and thinly sliced red onion. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: Try whipped goat cheese or a sharp cheddar slice. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick. Include caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or avocado. Mix fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill into the whipped feta. Use potato buns, sesame seed buns, or whole wheat buns if preferred.
Tips for Success: Ensure your skillet is screaming hot for a crispy crust. Don't overwork the meat when forming balls. Smash the patty once for maximum contact. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can whip the feta mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Storage & Reheating: Whipped feta mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cooked burger patties and bacon can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat patties in a skillet or oven until warmed through, and crisp up bacon in a dry skillet or air fryer. Assemble with fresh buns and whipped feta for the best experience. Reheating assembled burgers can make the bun soggy.