why make this recipe
Crack burgers are a delicious and easy burger option that packs lots of flavor. Mixing creamy sour cream and zesty ranch dressing into the ground chuck adds moisture and taste, making these burgers super juicy. Plus, the crunchy bacon and melted cheddar cheese take the flavor to a whole new level. They are perfect for summer cookouts or casual family dinners. Everyone will love these burgers, making them a quick favorite.
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 everything is well combined. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon, but be careful not to overmix. This will help keep the burgers tender.
-
Form the mixture into 6 hamburger patties. Make sure they are all the same size and thickness for even cooking. You can use a burger press or the lid of a container to shape them. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty to avoid puffing up while cooking. Wet your hands with cold water to help prevent sticking.
-
Grill the patties to your preferred doneness. You can use a grill pan, an outdoor grill, or a skillet over medium heat. Flip them carefully to keep them intact. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. For medium, 140-145°F. For well-done, 160°F. Avoid pressing down on the patties while grilling, as this can make them dry.
-
Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling to help keep them juicy.
-
Serve the burgers on your favorite hamburger buns with toppings like lettuce, tomato, mustard, and mayo. You can also add pickles, onions, avocado, or any favorite condiments. Toasting the buns is a great way to add extra crunch!
how to serve Crack Burgers
Serve the Crack Burgers right off the grill for the best experience. Pair them with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a side salad. Be sure to have a variety of toppings available so everyone can customize their burger to their liking.
how to store Crack Burgers
If you have leftover cooked burgers, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet. Uncooked burger patties can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make Crack Burgers
- Don’t overwork the meat: Mix just until combined for tender burgers.
- Dimple the patties: This will keep them flat while cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your burgers are cooked perfectly.
- Let them rest: Resting helps the juices stay inside the burgers.
variation
Feel free to experiment! You can mix in different spices or swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or Swiss for a different flavor. Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
FAQs
1. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for a few hours before grilling, or freeze them for later use.
2. How can I make these burgers healthier?
You can lean towards ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
3. What sides go well with Crack Burgers?
Fries, potato salad, coleslaw, or fresh veggies are great sides to complement these burgers.