why make this recipe
Crack Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger. They are packed with flavor thanks to ingredients like ranch dressing mix, sour cream, and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for backyard BBQs, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. Plus, they are easy to make and customizable to fit your taste. If you’re looking for a burger that stands out, Crack Burgers will become your go-to recipe!
how to make Crack Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lb ground chuck
- 3 Tbsp sour cream
- 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
- ⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Hamburger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Mustard
- Mayo (for topping)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough. Just mix until evenly distributed.
- Form the mixture into 6 hamburger patties. Try to make them the same size and thickness for even cooking. You can use a burger press or the lid of a container to shape the patties. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while grilling. It helps if you wet your hands with cold water before forming the patties, so they don’t stick.
- Grill the patties to your desired doneness. Use a grill pan, outdoor grill, or a skillet on the stovetop. Cook the burgers over medium heat, flipping them carefully so they don’t break. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare burgers, cook to 130-135°F, for medium, cook to 140-145°F, and for well-done, aim for 160°F. Remember not to press down on the patties while they are grilling, as this releases the juices and makes them dry. Preheat your cooking surface for best results and let the burgers rest a few minutes after grilling.
- Serve the burgers on your favorite hamburger buns, topped with lettuce, tomato, mustard, and mayo. Feel free to add other toppings like pickles, onions, avocado, or your favorite condiments. Toasting the buns can add a nice crispy texture.
how to serve Crack Burgers
Enjoy Crack Burgers fresh off the grill or stovetop. They pair wonderfully with fries, onion rings, or a simple salad. Add your favorite drinks, and you’re ready for a delightful meal. These burgers are perfect for sharing with family and friends at any gathering.
how to store Crack Burgers
If you have leftover burgers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the uncooked patties by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They will last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
tips to make Crack Burgers
- Mix the ingredients gently to keep the burgers tender.
- Make sure to preheat the grill or pan before cooking to get a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the burgers are cooked to your liking without drying out.
- Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.
variation
You can customize Crack Burgers by adding different spices or cheeses to the mixture. Try using blue cheese for a bolder taste or adding jalapeños for some heat. You can also swap the ground chuck for turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can swap the ground chuck for ground turkey, chicken, or a leaner beef blend. Just keep an eye on the cooking time—leaner meats can dry out faster, so don’t overcook them.
2. How can I make these burgers lighter?
Use a leaner cut of meat (like 93% lean beef or ground turkey), reduce the amount of cheese, and skip or reduce the bacon. You can also serve the patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
3. Can I make crack burgers without bacon?
Absolutely. You can simply leave the bacon out or use turkey bacon or beef bacon instead. The burgers will still be flavorful thanks to the ranch mix, sour cream, and cheddar.
4. Can I cook these burgers on the stove or in the oven instead of the grill?
Yes. You can cook the patties in a skillet over medium heat, about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. For the oven, bake on a lined tray at 400°F (200°C) until they reach a safe internal temperature (160°F / 71°C).
5. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes. Form the patties, place them on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
6. How do I store and reheat leftover burgers?
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If possible, store buns and toppings separately so they don’t get soggy.
Crack Burgers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb ground chuck
- 3 Tbsp sour cream
- 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
- ⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings and Buns
- Hamburger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Mustard
- Mayo (for topping)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined without overmixing.
- Form the mixture into 6 hamburger patties, ensuring they are the same size and thickness. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty.
Cooking
- Grill the patties to your desired doneness on medium heat, using a grill pan, outdoor grill, or skillet.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
- Let burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking.
Serving
- Serve the burgers on hamburger buns and top with lettuce, tomato, mustard, and mayo.
- Add other toppings like pickles, onions, or avocado as desired.