Description
A mouthwatering Smashburger Grilled Cheese with Special Sauce combining crispy, smoky plant-based smoked turkey bacon, a juicy smashed beef patty, melty plant-based cheese, caramelized onions, fresh lettuce, and a tangy, creamy special sauce (natural). This sandwich delivers a perfect fusion of bold flavors and textures, making it a comforting and elevated classic grilled cheese experience.
Ingredients
Sandwich Components
- Plant-based Cheese Slices, 4 slices
- Smoked Turkey Bacon (plant-based), 4 strips
- Ground Beef Patty, 1/4 lb
- Brioche or Sourdough Bread, 2 slices
- Caramelized Onions, 1/4 cup
- Fresh Lettuce Leaves, 2
Special Sauce (natural)
- Plant-based Mayonnaise, 3 tbsp
- Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural), 1 tsp
- Apple Cider Vinegar (natural), 1 tsp
- Paprika, 1/4 tsp
- Pinch of Salt
For Cooking
- Plant-based Butter, 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare the Special Sauce (natural): Mix plant-based mayonnaise, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare other components.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon (plant-based): In a skillet over medium heat, fry the smoked turkey bacon until crispy and browned on both sides. Drain excess oil on paper towels and set aside.
- Smash and Cook the Beef Patty: Shape ground beef into small balls, place on a hot griddle, and smash down with a spatula until thin. Cook until edges are crisp and inside is just cooked through.
- Caramelize the Onions: In the same pan, add sliced onions and cook slowly with a little plant-based butter over low heat until golden and sweet.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread special sauce on one side of each bread slice. Layer a plant-based cheese slice, crispy smoked turkey bacon, smashed burger patty, caramelized onions, fresh lettuce, and another cheese slice. Close sandwich with the remaining bread slice.
- Grill to Perfection: Butter the outside of the sandwich liberally. Cook on a medium skillet, pressing gently and flipping when golden brown, until both sides are crisp and the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet for even heat and excellent crust development.
- Do not over-smash the burger patty to maintain juiciness.
- Allow cheese and meat to reach room temperature for better melting and cooking.
- Caramelize onions over low heat to enhance sweetness and prevent burning.
- Press gently while grilling to keep fillings intact.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Smashburger, Grilled Cheese (plant-based), Special Sauce (natural), Smoked Turkey Bacon (plant-based), Caramelized Onions, Comfort Food