Crack Burgers
If you’re on the hunt for a burger recipe that’s juicy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, these Crack Burgers are about to become your new favorite! Combining savory ground chuck with tangy ranch dressing mix, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese, this easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and backyard barbecues alike. Say goodbye to boring burgers and hello to juicy perfection every time.
🕒 Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 12 min | Total Time: 22 min
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)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to combine everything until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your burgers tough instead of tender. The sour cream keeps the patties extra moist and flavorful. 🍔 - Form Patties
Divide the meat mixture evenly and form into 6 burger patties. To make shaping easier and prevent sticking, wet your hands with cold water before handling the meat. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty—this classic trick helps keep the burgers from puffing up as they cook. - Grill the Burgers
Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties on the heat source and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, flipping once. Avoid pressing down on the patties, as this squeezes out the flavorful juices. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done. - Rest and Assemble
Let the burgers rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy. Meanwhile, toast your hamburger buns for a perfect crisp texture. Build your burger with lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, or any other toppings you love—pickles, onions, and avocado are all great choices! 🥬🍅
Pro Tips for Perfect Crack Burgers
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mixing too much can develop the proteins and make your burger dense and tough. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Customize Your Cheese: Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack if you like a bit of spice, or use smoked gouda for a smoky twist.
- Make Ahead & Freeze: Form patties ahead of time and freeze them on a parchment-lined tray. Store in freezer bags and grill straight from frozen for quick weeknight dinners.
- Bun Toasting: Lightly butter and toast your buns on the grill or skillet for extra flavor and crunch.
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 burger | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |
Nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on ingredients and preparation methods. For personalized nutrition advice, please consult a dietitian or nutrition expert.
