The Best Carnivore Smash Burgers with Bacon Cream Cheese (Ready in 20 Minutes!)
If you’re on the carnivore diet and craving that juicy, flavorful bite of a smash burger—this one’s for you. It’s one of my go-to carnivore ground beef recipes because it’s quick, satisfying, and packed with crispy edges and creamy bacon-cheese goodness. It’ll seriously change your dinner game.
Why I Love This Recipe
When I first started the carnivore diet, I struggled to find something I craved—until I discovered smash burgers. The crispy edges, the juicy center, and then… I took it up a notch with a creamy, cheesy bacon topping.
That’s when everything changed for me.
This meal is not only insanely satisfying, it’s also super budget-friendly compared to steak, and I can whip it up in under 20 minutes.
The bacon cream cheese is the game-changer here. I’ll be honest—it tastes way better than American cheese, and it gives that rich, savory bite that makes these burgers totally next level.
Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a Sunday meal prep, these burgers have quickly become a staple in my house—and I think they’ll become one in yours too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Done in 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Carnivore & Keto-Friendly – Zero carbs and full of healthy fats.
- Affordable – Ground beef is cheaper than steak, but still satisfying.
- Kid-Approved – Simple, cheesy, bacon-y goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these crave-worthy carnivore smash burgers:
- 80/20 Ground Beef – The fat content keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Redmond’s Real Salt – A clean, mineral-rich salt.
- Black Pepper – For seasoning and a little kick.
- Cream Cheese (softened) – Forms the creamy base for the topping.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds saltiness and umami to the cream cheese.
- Bacon Crumbles – Make your own or use pre-packaged (Sam’s Club or Walmart).
- Butter – Adds a buttery rich flavor to the smash patties. Culver’s ButterBurger anyone?!
- Parchment Paper – Essential for the perfect smash without sticking!
How to Make the Best Carnivore Smash Burgers
- Make the Bacon Cream Cheese
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, parmesan, and bacon crumbles. Mix until everything is creamy and well blended. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture is your cheesy topping magic. Pro Tip: Save the extra and store in the fridge for the week—it’s amazing on eggs or steak too! - Roll and Smash the Patties
Roll your ground beef into 2 oz balls. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, place a beef ball in the skillet. Cover it with parchment paper and press down using a burger smasher or the bottom of a mason jar on top of your spatula. Smash until the patty is ¼–⅛ inch thick.Sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook until the edges are crispy. Flip the burger. - Top Burgers with Bacon Cream Cheese Add 1 tablespoon of the bacon cream cheese mixture on top of each burger. As it warms up, the mixture will soften and melt across the burger. Use a spoon to help spread the cheese until it’s all covered.Repeat until all the burger balls are cooked, using 1 tablespoon of butter per 2–3 smash burgers. Enjoy!
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use parchment paper when smashing—your burger won’t stick, and you’ll get that perfect sear.
- Store extra cream cheese mixture in an airtight container and use it throughout the week.
- Try these on the grill with a cast iron griddle for even more smoky flavor.
- Want more crunch? Add a few crispy whole bacon slices right on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook and cool the burgers, then reheat in a skillet or air fryer. Store the bacon cream cheese separately and top when reheating.
Can I use a different cheese?
Parmesan adds the best salty punch, but shredded cheddar or mozzarella can work too. Just keep the cream cheese base!
What’s the best way to smash a burger without a smasher?
Use a mason jar or heavy spatula with parchment paper between the burger and your press. Works like a charm!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a carnivore recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and keeps you on track, this is it. These Bacon Cream Cheese Smash Burgers hit every craving—and they’re ready in just 20 minutes.
If you try this recipe, I’d LOVE to see it! Leave a comment below so more people can discover this carnivore staple.
The Best Carnivore Smash Burgers with Bacon Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef 80/20
- 8 oz Cream Cheese softened
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 cup Bacon Crumbles pre-packaged or homemade
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, parmesan, and bacon crumbles until creamy and well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Roll ground beef into 2 oz balls.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and melt until it coats the bottom of the pan. Add 2-3 burger balls to the skillet.
- Cover with parchment paper and press down firmly using a burger press or spatula until 1/4 to 1/8 in thick. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until the edges are crispy and browned, about 2–3 minutes. Flip the burger and cook the other side until done, about 1–2 more minutes.
- Top each patty with 1 tablespoon of bacon cream cheese mixture.Use the back of a spoon to spread the cheese as it softens and melts.
- Repeat with remaining burger balls.Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use parchment paper when smashing the burgers to prevent sticking and get perfect crispy edges.
- Store extra bacon cream cheese in an airtight container—it’s delicious on eggs or steak!
- For even more flavor, try cooking the burgers on a cast iron griddle over the grill.
- Want extra crunch? Top with crispy whole bacon slices.
