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There is just something incredible about biting into a homemade burger that bursts with cheesy flavor and that signature ranch kick. These Crack Burgers are the kind of recipe I keep in my back pocket whenever I want to impress friends or whip up a family dinner without fuss. Every juicy bite comes loaded with bacon, ranch, and cheddar, all held together with a tender beef patty. This is the burger that always disappears first at our cookouts.
My kids beg for these on burger night and even the pickiest eaters go back for seconds. If you are looking for a crowd-pleaser that tastes like a splurge without much work, this is it.
Ingredients
- Ground chuck: Juicy beef is the star of the show Choose freshly ground chuck with some fat for best flavor and tenderness
- Sour cream: Keeps the patties extra moist Use full-fat for richness
- Ranch dressing mix: Delivers that signature tangy herby punch Look for a quality mix without a lot of fillers
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds smoky crunch Make sure bacon is crisp but not burnt
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty goodness Pick a sharp cheddar and shred it fresh for best flavor
- Hamburger buns: The vehicle for your masterpiece Choose soft but sturdy buns to hold up to the juicy patty
- Lettuce tomato mustard mayo: Fresh toppings that add texture and brightness Go with crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for the best bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Everything:
- Gently mix the ground chuck sour cream ranch mix bacon and cheddar cheese in a large bowl Just use your hands or a sturdy spoon and stop when everything looks evenly combined Mixing too long will toughen your burgers
- Shape Patties:
- Divide the mixture into six equal portions Shape each portion into a patty with your hands If you have a burger press or a large flat lid you can use it to press them evenly Make them all the same thickness and press a little dent in the center so they cook flat
- Cook Patties:
- Preheat your grill grill pan or skillet to medium heat Place the patties on and let them cook without moving them for several minutes until you see juices on the top Flip gently with a spatula Cook until your preferred doneness using a meat thermometer Medium-rare is about one hundred thirty to one hundred thirty five degrees Medium is about one hundred forty to one hundred forty five degrees Well-done is one hundred sixty degrees Let the patties rest a few minutes after cooking so the juices stay in
- Build Your Burger:
- Toast hamburger buns for a bit of crisp texture Layer a patty on each bun Add lettuce tomato mustard mayo and any other toppings you like Pickles onions avocado and hot sauce are all great ideas Let everyone build their own burger for a fun meal
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The cheddar cheese is my favorite aspect of this burger it melts right into the beef for extra flavor. Once my little nephew helped with the cheese and that batch turned out even cheesier than usual which everyone loved.
Storage Tips
Let any leftover burger patties cool completely before wrapping them in foil or plastic wrap. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat keep the patties covered in the microwave or warm them gently in a skillet to maintain moisture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have ground chuck you can swap with ground turkey or even a meatless plant-based substitute. Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier result. Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a twist on the cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers pair perfectly with oven-baked fries coleslaw or even a fresh green salad. For a fun twist offer a burger bar with assorted toppings like sliced jalapeños sautéed onions or different cheeses so everyone can build their own.
A Bit of Burger History
Burgers like these capture that American backyard barbecue spirit. Ranch seasoning and cheddar became popular burger additions in the last few decades thanks to their bold flavor and family appeal. Bacon and ranch together really took off in the nineties making this a nostalgic treat for anyone who grew up on cookouts and summer picnics.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the patties from drying out?
Use ground chuck for its higher fat content, avoid overmixing, and let the burgers rest a few minutes before serving.
- → Can I cook these burgers indoors?
Yes, cook them in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Just be sure not to press down on the patties to keep them juicy.
- → What other toppings pair well?
Classic choices are lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Try avocado slices, caramelized onions, or your favorite sauces for a twist.
- → How do I know when they're cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer: aim for 140-145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done. Avoid overcooking for best results.
- → Any tips for shaping burger patties?
Wet your hands with cold water, shape evenly sized patties, and press a small dimple in the center to prevent puffing.