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If you love burgers but want something a little extra special Crack Burgers are pure comfort food with smoky bacon creamy sour cream and sharp cheddar cheese mixed right into the patties Plus there is a snappy homemade sauce and all the best toppings to bring it home My family will beg for these on casual Saturday nights and nobody ever wants takeout when Crack Burgers are on the menu
I still remember the first bite my brother took he just said make this always and that is how this burger ended up in our regular rotation
Ingredients
- Ground beef: the fattier the better as it keeps the burger moist and rich look for 80 20 for best results
- Sour cream: for an ultra tender bite and a little tang
- Ranch dressing powder: boosts flavor with herbs and spices pick a quality brand for balanced taste
- Cooked crumbled bacon: smoky and rich for extra satisfaction pick a freshly cooked batch for best flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into every bite sharp cheddar gives a stronger flavor
- Kosher salt: helps the flavors pop
- Coarse black pepper: adds depth
- Neutral oil: for crisping the patties without overwhelming flavors canola or vegetable oil works perfectly
- Buns: choose a sturdy brioche or potato bun for structure
- Lettuce and tomato: refreshes and balances the richness
- Mayonnaise: the creamy base for the sauce
- Grainy mustard: adds tang and texture
- Chili sauce: for a subtle heat and punch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Patty Base:
- Gently place ground beef sour cream ranch powder bacon cheddar salt and pepper in a mixing bowl Use your hands to combine until just mixed No need for perfection overworking will make the burgers tough
- Shape and Cook the Patties:
- Heat your griddle or cast iron pan to medium high and add a swirl of neutral oil Form the meat mixture into three loose patties Patties might be slightly soft from the sour cream so handle with care Once the oil shimmers slide patties on Cook for about three to four minutes per side letting the cheese crisp up and bacon meld If you like more crust press gently down
- Make the Sauce:
- While your patties cook stir together mayonnaise grainy mustard and chili sauce in a bowl Mix completely for a silky spread
- Toast the Buns:
- Once burgers are nearly finished split the buns and press facedown on the pan until just golden and crisp This keeps the buns from getting soggy and gives every bite a little crunch
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spread a generous spoonful of the sauce on the bottom bun Add lettuce and tomato then tuck in the burger patty Top with the other half of the bun and serve piping hot
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You Must Know
- Bursting with bold flavor from bacon cheddar and ranch
- Juicy all the way through because of the sour cream
- Crowd pleaser for parties and family cookouts
My favorite ingredient is definitely the bacon For a friendsgiving one year I added extra and people kept asking what made it taste so amazing There is never a crumb left after Crack Burgers make an appearance
Storage Tips
Cooked burgers will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days Cool completely then wrap tightly and store in an airtight container Reheat gently in a covered pan or microwave to retain juiciness Store sauce separately and add fresh lettuce and tomato right before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap ground beef with ground turkey or a plant based blend for a lighter take If you do not have ranch powder a mix of garlic powder onion powder dried dill and parsley will give a similar savory kick Monterey Jack or Colby cheese are fine substitutes for cheddar
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Serving Suggestions
Serve Crack Burgers with crisp oven fries or pickle chips for extra crunch These patties also work beautifully on slider buns for parties I have even served leftovers chopped up over a salad and it was unbelievably good
The Burger in Food Culture
Mixing flavor right into the patty is a classic diner move and ranch seasoning is a clever American twist Crack Burgers are the kind of hearty treat that feel right at home on game days potlucks or a summer patio and everyone loves a burger with a secret sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best beef to use for these burgers?
Opt for ground beef with some fat, like 80/20, as it ensures juicy, flavorful patties when combined with the mix-ins.
- → Can I make the patties in advance?
Yes, patties can be mixed and shaped ahead, then chilled until you're ready to cook. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cooking.
- → Is it possible to bake instead of pan-cook the patties?
While pan-cooking provides a crisp crust, you can bake the patties on a baking sheet at 400°F, though texture may differ slightly.
- → What are suggested toppings for extra crunch?
Lettuce and tomato are classics, but pickles or crispy fried onions offer extra crunch and flavor.
- → Can I substitute the ranch dressing powder?
If preferred, try onion powder and dried herbs in place of ranch to maintain a similar savory note.
- → How do you keep the patties from falling apart?
Handle the beef gently and avoid over-mixing. Cooking on a hot griddle also helps the patties hold together well.