Why Make This Recipe
Crack Burgers are not just any ordinary burger; they are packed with flavor and a delightful mix of ingredients that will have your taste buds dancing. The combination of ground chuck, creamy sour cream, zesty ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a rich burger experience that will quickly become your favorite. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or just wanting a quick meal, this recipe is simple and always satisfies cravings.
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 well combined. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly. Beginner Note: Don’t overmix the meat, as this can result in tough burgers. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form the mixture into 6 hamburger patties. To ensure even cooking, try to make the patties the same size and thickness. Use a burger press or the lid of a container to help shape the patties. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty before grilling. This will help prevent the burgers from puffing up in the middle. Beginner Note: Wet your hands with cold water before forming the patties to prevent the meat from sticking. Make sure the patties are not too thick, or they will take longer to cook.
Grill the patties to your desired doneness, being careful as the burgers will be very moist. Use a grill pan, outdoor grill, or even a skillet on the stovetop. Cook the burgers over medium heat. Flip them carefully to avoid breaking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare burgers, cook to 130-135°F. For medium burgers, cook to 140-145°F. For well-done burgers, cook to 160°F. Beginner Note: Preheat the grill or skillet before adding the patties. Use a timer to ensure even cooking. Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the burgers on your favorite hamburger buns, topped with lettuce, tomato, mustard, and mayo. You can add other toppings such as pickles, onions, avocado, or your favorite condiments. Beginner Note: Toast the buns for a crispier texture. Consider using a variety of toppings to create a unique burger experience.
How to Serve Crack Burgers
Serve Crack Burgers immediately after grilling. You can set up a toppings bar to let your guests customize their own burgers. Just lay out the hamburgers, buns, and toppings on a table and let everyone create their perfect burger!
How to Store Crack Burgers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the patties before cooking. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Crack Burgers
- Use high-quality ground chuck for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Mix in other ingredients like diced jalapeños or different cheeses for a flavor twist.
- Always preheat your grill or skillet to ensure a nice sear on the burgers.
- Let the cooked burgers rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Variation
Try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor. You can also swap out the ranch dressing mix for a different seasoning mix depending on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chuck?
Yes, but keep in mind that ground turkey is leaner, so the burgers may not be as juicy. You may want to add some extra fat or moisture to the mixture.
2. How can I make the burgers spicier?
You can mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture.
3. Can I grill the burgers indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or a skillet on the stovetop if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Just make sure to keep an eye on them for even cooking.
Crack Burgers
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1.5 lb ground chuck Use high-quality ground chuck for the best flavor and juiciness.
- 3 Tbsp sour cream
- 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix Consider swapping for a different seasoning mix if desired.
- ⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.
Toppings and Buns
- Hamburger buns Toast the buns for a crispier texture.
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Mustard
- Mayo Use 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, pressing a small dimple in the center of each patty before grilling.
Cooking
- Grill the patties over medium heat until they reach your desired doneness, checking with a meat thermometer.
- Preheat the grill or skillet before adding the patties to ensure even cooking.
- Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serving
- Serve Crack Burgers immediately on your favorite hamburger buns with toppings.