Burgers are a classic favorite that many of us can never resist. However, what if you could elevate the humble burger to a whole new level of flavor and indulgence? Enter the Crack Burger: a juicy, smoky ranch-infused burger that’s loaded with the irresistible flavors of sour cream, ranch dressing mix, bacon, and cheddar cheese. This recipe brings together some of the most beloved ingredients into one, creating a burger that’s both rich and flavorful while offering that classic smoky taste we all crave.
Why We Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about these Crack Burgers, and here’s why:
- Juicy and Flavor-Packed: Thanks to the sour cream, the burgers are extra juicy and tender. The ranch dressing mix infuses each bite with a savory, herby flavor, making these burgers anything but ordinary.
- The Smoky Edge: Adding crumbled bacon gives a subtle smokiness and crispiness that complements the tender beef and creamy ingredients.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Shredded cheddar cheese melts right into the patties, ensuring every bite is cheesy and rich. It adds depth of flavor without needing extra toppings or cheese slices.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is straightforward enough for weeknights but impressive enough for cookouts or gatherings.
Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these Crack Burgers so delicious:
- 1½ lb ground chuck: Ground chuck has an ideal fat content for burgers, resulting in a juicy, flavorful patty.
- 3 Tbsp sour cream: This secret ingredient keeps the burgers moist and adds a subtle tang.
- 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix: A quick way to add tons of flavor with a hint of garlic, onion, and herbs.
- ⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Bacon brings a smoky, salty contrast that complements the creamy and cheesy components.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, gooey cheese throughout the burger makes every bite satisfying and rich.
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking the bacon. Fry it in a skillet until crisp, then let it cool on paper towels. Crumble the bacon into small bits and set aside.
- Mix the Burger Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Combine the Ingredients: Use your hands to gently mix everything together. Don’t overwork the meat mixture; you want to incorporate the ingredients evenly without making the burgers tough.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on how big you want your burgers. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a patty about ¾-inch thick.
- Indent the Center: Press your thumb gently into the center of each patty to create an indentation. This helps the patties cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle.
Step 3: Grill or Cook the Burgers
- Grill Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Stovetop Option: If you don’t have a grill, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil to prevent sticking, then cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings, or enjoy them on their own for a low-carb option!
Success Tips
- Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining the ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
- Check Doneness Carefully: If you’re aiming for a specific level of doneness, use a meat thermometer. For medium, aim for 160°F in the center of the burger.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Shredded cheddar works best as it melts smoothly into the burger. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
- Customize Toppings: Crack Burgers are delicious on their own, but if you want extra flavor, try adding toppings like avocado, spicy jalapeños, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
Storage
Leftover Patties: If you have leftovers, let the patties cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Separate each patty with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they’re heated through.
Notes
- Alternative Meats: Ground chuck works best for this recipe, but you could also use ground sirloin or even a blend of beef and pork for a unique flavor.
- Add a Twist: For a spicy kick, try mixing in a little chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the bun and serve the Crack Burger over a bed of greens or in a lettuce wrap. It’s just as delicious!
Nutrition
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
Note: Nutrition information may vary based on the brands and specific ingredients used.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these burgers without bacon?
A: Yes! The bacon adds a smoky flavor, but you can leave it out if you prefer. The burgers will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey will yield a leaner burger, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Add a little extra seasoning for best results.
Q: Is it okay to cook these burgers in the oven?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
Q: How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart?
A: Since these burgers contain cheese and bacon, they can be a bit delicate. Make sure the patties are well-formed and consider chilling them for 10-15 minutes before cooking if they’re too soft.
Conclusion
Crack Burgers are an unbeatable choice when you want a burger that’s more than just meat and cheese. With sour cream for juiciness, ranch mix for herby flavor, bacon for smokiness, and cheddar cheese for melty goodness, each bite is an explosion of taste that leaves you wanting more. Perfect for grilling season, family dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself to something a little special, these Crack Burgers are sure to impress.