Crack Burgers

Crack Burgers are juicy, flavor-packed burgers topped with a mouthwatering blend of creamy cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon. These burgers are perfect for any barbecue, family dinner, or backyard gathering. The combination of savory and slightly tangy flavors makes them completely irresistible. Let’s dive into making these delicious burgers!

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cook’s Notes and Tips
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Burgers

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Toppings

• 8 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Burgers

1. Mix the Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ranch seasoning mix, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.

Cook the Burgers

3. Preheat Grill or Skillet: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or skillet to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Patties: Cook the burger patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.

Prepare the Crack Sauce

5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning mix until well combined. Set aside.

Assemble the Burgers

6. Toast the Buns: Toast the burger buns on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
7. Assemble: Spread a generous amount of the crack sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cooked burger patty on top, followed by chopped bacon, lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if desired. Finish with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve: Serve the crack burgers immediately while they are hot and juicy.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

• Use 80/20 Beef: For the juiciest burgers, use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. The extra fat ensures a flavorful and juicy burger.
• Indent the Patties: Making a small indentation in the center of each patty helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
• Resting Time: Let the cooked burgers rest for a minute or two before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations

• Spicy Crack Burgers: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the burger mixture for a little heat, and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
• Turkey Crack Burgers: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version. Be sure to cook thoroughly as turkey requires a higher internal temperature.
• Blue Cheese Twist: Add crumbled blue cheese to the burger mixture for a tangy flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fries: Serve your crack burgers with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries on the side.
• Coleslaw: A side of creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the rich flavors of the burgers.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for a tasty and nutritious side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the burger patties and crack sauce ahead of time. Store the patties in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, and keep the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?

Store leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through.

Can I Cook These Burgers in the Oven?

Yes, you can bake the burger patties in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Swiss, pepper jack, or American cheese, to suit your taste.

Can I Freeze the Burger Patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked burger patties. Place parchment paper between each patty and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Crack Burgers are a surefire way to elevate your burger game. With a flavorful beef patty, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a creamy ranch sauce, these burgers are packed with all the best flavors. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a seriously good burger, these crack burgers are sure to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering burger experience!

Happy Grilling!