Craving a burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and just a bit indulgent? These Crack Burgers are your answer. Infused with ranch dressing mix, sour cream, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, these burgers are packed with savory goodness in every bite. Perfect for grilling season or a satisfying weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chuck
- 3 tbsp sour cream
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Burger Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix. Mix until well incorporated.
- Add the cooked and crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese to the beef mixture. Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed.
- Form the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Serve:
- Place the cooked patties on burger buns. Add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, and additional cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the juicy, flavorful goodness of these Crack Burgers.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Buns and Toppings: Use brioche buns for an extra touch of indulgence. Add a slice of avocado, a dollop of extra sour cream, or a handful of crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack, Swiss, or blue cheese for a unique twist.
- Meat Options: You can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust cooking times accordingly as these meats may cook faster than beef.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding diced jalapeños to the burger mixture for a spicy kick, or mix in some caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Buns: Use lettuce wraps or keto-friendly buns to keep this meal low-carb.
- Ranch Mix: Ensure the ranch dressing mix you use is low-carb or make a homemade version with keto-friendly ingredients.
- Cheese: Use full-fat shredded cheddar cheese to stay within keto guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare the burger patties in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Q: Can I freeze the burger patties? A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q: What can I serve with Crack Burgers? A: Serve these burgers with classic sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Q: How do I ensure the burgers stay juicy? A: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and resist pressing down on the patties while they cook. Both of these actions can cause the burgers to become tough and dry.
Crack Burgers are a delicious and easy way to elevate your burger game. The combination of ranch seasoning, sour cream, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering burger that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a hearty dinner, or simply craving a juicy burger, these Crack Burgers are the perfect choice. Enjoy every flavorful bite and watch these become a new favorite in your home!
