Crack Burgers

These Crack Burgers are the ultimate indulgence for burger lovers, featuring juicy ground chuck patties blended with ranch and sour cream, then topped with melted cheddar and crispy crumbled bacon. Served on a toasted bun with fresh lettuce, each bite delivers a satisfying burst of savory flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Burgers are more than just your average cheeseburger. With the infusion of ranch seasoning and sour cream in the patty, each burger is moist, flavorful, and far from ordinary. The melted cheddar and crispy bacon add rich textures and a delicious umami punch. Quick to prepare and sure to please, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or backyard barbecues.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground chuck
• Ranch dressing mix
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Lettuce
• Hamburger buns

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chuck, ranch dressing mix, and sour cream. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
2. Shape the mixture into 4 large, thick burger patties.
3. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. In the final minute of cooking, top each patty with cheddar cheese and cover with a lid to melt.
5. Sprinkle each patty with crumbled bacon and let it sit briefly to crisp up on the hot cheese.
6. Serve on toasted buns with fresh lettuce or your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 540 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the burgers wrapped in lettuce instead of buns.
• Different Cheese: Swap cheddar with pepper jack or Swiss for a new flavor profile.
• Avocado Topping: Add sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess.
• Caramelized Onions: Top the burgers with sweet caramelized onions for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes. Avoid reheating with lettuce or buns to maintain texture.

FAQs

How do I keep the burgers from drying out?

Avoid overmixing the meat and cook just until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The sour cream also helps retain moisture.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the patties a day in advance and refrigerate them, covered.

Can I freeze Crack Burgers?

Yes, freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

What kind of ranch dressing mix should I use?

A dry ranch seasoning mix works best for flavor infusion.

Can I cook these on a stovetop instead of a grill?

Absolutely. A heavy skillet or cast iron pan works well over medium-high heat.

What is the best type of bacon for this recipe?

Use thick-cut bacon for better texture and flavor.

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck?

Ground chuck is preferred for its fat content, but 80/20 ground beef is a suitable substitute.

How do I toast hamburger buns?

Place them cut-side down on a skillet or grill for 1–2 minutes until golden.

What toppings pair well with Crack Burgers?

Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and avocado are great choices.

Can I make these into sliders?

Yes, form smaller patties and use slider buns for a mini version of this recipe.

Conclusion

Crack Burgers are a surefire way to upgrade your burger night with their irresistible flavor combination and juicy texture. Simple yet indulgent, they’re a great addition to any cookout or family meal. Try them once, and they’re bound to become a favorite.

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