Introduction

Crack burgers are juicy, flavorful patties packed with cheddar, bacon, and ranch seasoning for an irresistible taste. These burgers are easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying meal at home. Get ready to enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

A close-up view of a burger patty topped with a thick layer of melted bright orange cheddar cheese, which is covered by small strips of crispy dark reddish-brown bacon, sitting on a bed of fresh green leafy lettuce. The textures highlight the juicy, well-grilled beef patty beneath the cheese and bacon. A small piece of bright red tomato is visible blurred in the background, on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently with your hands or a sturdy spoon until ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
Step 2: Form the mixture into six equal-sized hamburger patties. Wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking and press a small dimple in the center of each patty to help keep its shape during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties carefully, flipping once, until they reach your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check temperatures: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
Step 4: Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Toast the hamburger buns if desired, then assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, and any other favorite toppings.

Tips & Variations

Pressing a dimple in each patty prevents puffing and ensures even cooking.
Try adding sliced pickles, onions, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
Use a burger press or the lid of a container to shape uniform patties for better cooking results.
Toast the buns on the grill or in a pan to add a crispy texture.

Storage

Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through to avoid drying out. For uncooked patties, freeze them separated by parchment paper in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

How to Serve

A close-up of a juicy cheeseburger with three visible layers—at the bottom, a toasted bun with a thick, browned beef patty; next, a creamy, light-colored sauce with black pepper specks dripping down the sides; on top, a bright orange melted cheddar cheese layer with several strips of crispy, golden-brown bacon scattered on it. The background is a white marbled texture, enhancing the warm colors of the burger. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey, chicken, or a blend of meats, but keep in mind the flavor and fat content will vary, which may affect juiciness.

What if I don’t have ranch dressing mix?

You can make a simple substitute by combining dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the amounts until you achieve a ranch-like flavor.