Get ready to discover your new favorite burger with this Crack Burgers recipe! These burgers are outrageously juicy, loaded with cheesy, ranch-seasoned flavor, and topped with crispy bacon for an addictive bite. They’re perfect for cookouts, game days, or any time you crave a burger that goes beyond the basics. One bite, and you’ll see why they’re called Crack Burgers!
Table of Contents
How to Make Crack Burgers
Crack Burgers are a fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying meal! They’re simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have on hand. The combination of juicy ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and your favorite toppings creates a delicious burger experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these burgers can be ready in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Plus, the opportunity to customize them with different toppings makes each burger uniquely yours. Enjoying a Crack Burger is not just about the meal—it’s about the fun of assembling and personalizing your perfect bite!
Ingredients for Crack Burgers
For the Patties:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor).
- ½ packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 tablespoon).
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional).
Mix-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped.
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns (brioche or your favorite).
- Additional cheddar cheese slices (optional).
- Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion (optional).
- Mayo, ranch, or your favorite burger sauce.
Instructions
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Prepare the Patties
Combine ground beef, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Add shredded cheddar and chopped bacon. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
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Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape into burger patties, slightly larger than your buns (they’ll shrink when cooking). Press a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.
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Cook the Burgers
Grill or pan-fry the patties over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheddar cheese and cover to melt.
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Toast the Buns
Optional but recommended: lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a skillet until golden.
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Assemble
Spread mayo, ranch, or sauce of choice on the buns. Layer the cheesy burger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other toppings you love. Top it off with the bun and serve hot.
Tips for the Recipe
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Don’t overmix the beef mixture; this keeps the burgers tender, not tough.
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Indent the center of the patty with your thumb to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
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Use freshly cooked bacon rather than pre-packaged bits for the best texture and flavor.
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Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.
What to Serve with Crack Burgers
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Crispy French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Classic sides that never miss with a juicy burger.
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Coleslaw or Pickle Slaw: Adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
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Loaded Potato Salad: A creamy, cheesy, bacon-loaded option that complements the burger’s ingredients.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: a smoky-sweet pairing that balances the bold ranch and bacon flavors.
Ingredient Substitutes
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Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap for a leaner patty without sacrificing flavor.
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Pepper Jack or Gouda – Use instead of cheddar for a spicy or smoky twist.
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Turkey Bacon – For a lighter version, use turkey bacon instead of regular.
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Gluten-Free Buns – To keep the meal gluten-free, choose GF burger buns.
Crack Burger Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mix.
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Crack Sliders: Use the same mixture to make slider-sized burgers for parties or appetizers.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why are they called Crack Burgers?
Crack Burgers have earned their name due to the incredibly addictive combination of ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. This mouthwatering trio has become so popular that it’s often referred to as “crack” in a variety of recipes, ranging from hearty dips to savory chicken dishes. The blend of flavors is irresistible, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. The unique combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also creates a satisfying, indulgent experience that keeps people coming back for more.
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Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance by mixing the ingredients and shaping them ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the formed patties for up to 24 hours before you’re ready to cook them. This not only saves you time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Just make sure to cover them tightly in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Enjoy making your cooking process more efficient while still serving delicious patties!
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What kind of cheese works best?
When it comes to choosing the best cheese for crack burgers, sharp cheddar is a classic choice that never disappoints. Its robust flavor complements the savory elements of the burger perfectly. However, if you’re looking to add a bit of a kick, pepper jack cheese is an excellent option. It brings a nice blend of creaminess and a hint of spice that can elevate the overall taste of your burger. Gouda is another fantastic option, especially if you prefer a smoother, slightly sweet flavor. It melts beautifully, creating a rich and creamy texture that meshes well with the juicy patty.
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Can I bake them instead?
Yes, you can bake crack burgers! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through. If you’d like to add cheese, do so during the last few minutes of baking to allow it to melt nicely. Enjoy your baked crack burgers!
Final Thoughts
Crack Burgers are comfort food at its finest. Packed with cheesy, ranch-infused flavor and crispy bacon in every bite, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled or pan-fried, these burgers are bound to become your go-to for impressing guests or just treating yourself.
Fire up the grill and experience the burger that’s earned its name. You’ll be making these on repeat!
Ingredients
For the Patties:
-
1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor).
-
½ packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 tablespoon).
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder.
-
½ teaspoon onion powder.
-
½ teaspoon black pepper.
-
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional).
Mix-ins:
-
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
-
4 slices cooked bacon, chopped.
For Serving:
-
4 burger buns (brioche or your favorite).
-
Additional cheddar cheese slices (optional).
-
Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion (optional).
Instructions
-
Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add in the shredded cheddar and chopped bacon. Mix gently to combine—avoid overmixing. -
Shape the Patties
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape into burger patties slightly larger than the buns, and press a small indent in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking. -
Cook the Burgers
Grill or pan-fry over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the burgers reach your desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, top with a slice of cheddar and cover to melt the cheese. -
Toast the Buns
Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a pan until golden brown (optional, but adds a great texture). -
Assemble and Serve
Spread sauce on the buns, layer the cheesy patties, add lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, or any other toppings you enjoy. Cap it with the top bun and serve immediately.
