Crack Burgers Recipe are no ordinary burgers. They combine the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and crispy flavors that make them absolutely irresistible. With bacon, cheddar, and ranch seasoning mixed directly into the patty, these burgers have gained a cult following among food lovers.
Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or just want to indulge in a burger like no other, this guide will show you how to make the perfect Crack Burgers from scratch. Let’s get started!
What Are Crack Burgers Recipe?
Crack Burgers are aptly named for their addictive flavor. The patties are made by mixing ground beef, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and ranch seasoning into one heavenly bite. The combination of tangy ranch, rich bacon, and melted cheese gives these burgers a flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
What sets Crack Burgers apart from traditional burgers is the mix of ingredients within the patty itself. Rather than just topping the burger with cheese and bacon, these elements are blended into the ground beef, creating an evenly flavored bite every time.
For more inspiration on creative burger recipes, check out Learning to Smoke’s Crack Burger Recipe or this delicious take on a Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burger.
Looking for something equally indulgent? Try Fried S’mores Bombs for a fun, sweet twist on a classic campfire treat.
Essential Ingredients for Crack Burgers
To make the ultimate Crack Burgers, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Use an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. This fat content ensures your burgers stay moist without becoming greasy.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a must. It melts evenly and adds a sharp, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon and ranch.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon is mixed directly into the patty, adding a smoky, crunchy texture that elevates the entire burger.
- Sour Cream: Sour cream helps keep the patties moist and adds a slight tang that balances out the richness of the bacon and cheese.
- Ranch Seasoning: The star of the show! Ranch seasoning provides the perfect tangy, herby flavor that gives Crack Burgers their signature taste.
Other optional toppings include:
- Buns: Brioche buns work best as they are slightly sweet and soft but sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy patty.
- Lettuce, Tomato, Onion: Classic toppings that add freshness and crunch to your burger.
For more burger ideas, try this Cheddar Bacon Ranch Burger, which features similar ingredients with a unique twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crack Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
- Gently mix the ingredients with your hands, making sure not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on how large you want the patties. Form each portion into a round patty, about ¾ inch thick.
- Use your thumb to press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent the burgers from puffing up while cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Grilling Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
- Place the patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for a well-done burger.
- During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty to melt.
Skillet Method:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Griddle Method:
- Preheat a flat-top griddle to medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side until you achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Spread a thin layer of butter on each side of the brioche buns.
- Place them on the grill, griddle, or skillet, cut side down, and toast until golden brown. This should only take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
- Place the cooked patties on the toasted buns.
- Add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
- Spread additional ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or aioli on the top bun.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations of Crack Burgers
One of the best things about Crack Burgers is how versatile they are. Here are some popular variations to try:
1. Chicken Crack Burgers
- Substitute ground chicken for the beef. Ground chicken is leaner, so adding a bit of olive oil or extra cheese will help keep the patties moist.
2. Spicy Crack Burgers
- Add diced jalapeños or a few teaspoons of hot sauce to the patty mixture for a spicy kick.
- Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra heat.
3. Vegetarian Crack Burgers
- Swap the ground beef for a plant-based patty or black beans. Mix in shredded cheddar, sour cream, and ranch seasoning as you would with the beef version.
4. Cheddar-Stuffed Crack Burgers
- Instead of mixing the cheddar into the patty, form a ball of shredded cheddar and place it in the center of each patty. Form the beef around it, creating a cheese-stuffed burger.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crack Burgers
- Don’t overmix the patty mixture: Overworking the meat can lead to dense, tough burgers.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the patties cook more evenly.
- Cook on high heat: Whether grilling or using a skillet, medium-high heat ensures a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Rest the patties: After forming the patties, let them rest for about 10 minutes before cooking to help them retain their shape.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crack Burgers
Crack Burgers are rich and flavorful, so pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal. Here are some great options:
- Fries: You can’t go wrong with crispy fries. Try waffle fries, curly fries, or even sweet potato fries for a twist.
- Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings are a great accompaniment. Serve them with ranch or BBQ sauce for dipping.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich burgers.
- Pickles: The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon, making them a perfect side.
Storing and Reheating Crack Burgers
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you have uncooked patties, place parchment paper between each one and store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing Patties
- Place uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- For best results, reheat cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- You can also microwave patties, but this may result in a loss of texture and crispiness.
FAQs: Crack Burgers
What are Crack Burgers made of?
Crack Burgers Recipe are made from a combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and crispy bacon. These ingredients are mixed into the patty, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
Can I make Crack Burgers without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon if desired. The burgers will still be flavorful thanks to the cheddar and ranch seasoning.
How can I prevent my Crack Burgers from falling apart?
Make sure not to overmix the beef, and allow the patties to rest before cooking. Also, avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook, as this can cause them to lose moisture and fall apart.
What is the best cheese for Crack Burgers?
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice, but you can also use pepper jack for a spicier version or American cheese for extra creaminess.
For more burger tips, you might also enjoy reading about how to make cheeseburger casserole for a hearty, baked take on a classic burger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the meat: Handling the beef too much can result in dense burgers. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
- Cooking at too low a temperature: Crack Burgers need high heat to develop a good sear on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
- Skipping the bun toasting: Toasting the buns adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy from the juicy patty.
Conclusion: Why Crack Burgers Recipe Should Be Your Next Grilling Adventure
Crack Burgers offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures, combining cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning into a patty that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re grilling them for a summer cookout or cooking them on a griddle for a cozy family dinner, these burgers are guaranteed to be a hit.
Try experimenting with the different variations, and pair them with your favorite sides like fries or coleslaw. Once you make Crack Burgers, they’ll become your go-to recipe for any occasion!
Looking for other creative recipes? Explore the Pumpkin Banana Loaf or indulge in the decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs for a sweet ending to your meal.