Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4 delicious burgers
Ingredients Needed for the Ultimate Crack Burgers
To create the ultimate crack burgers, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that come together to form the perfect patty. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
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
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into four evenly sized hamburger patties.
Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill and cook the patties to your desired level of doneness. Remember, these burgers are extra moist, so flip them gently to maintain their shape.
Serve and Enjoy: Place each burger on a toasted bun and top with crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, tangy mustard, and creamy mayo for the perfect finishing touch.
Sauce and Topping Recommendations
To truly unlock the flavors of crack burgers, it’s essential to pair them with the perfect sauces and toppings. These additions will enhance the overall taste profile and take your burger to the next level.
Special Sauce: A classic choice for crack burgers is a special sauce that combines tanginess, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness. A combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Spread this sauce on the buns before assembling your burger for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Caramelized Onions: Adding caramelized onions to your crack burgers takes them to a whole new level. The sweet and savory taste of the onions complements the smoky flavors of the patty perfectly. To caramelize onions, cook them slowly over low heat until they turn golden brown and develop a rich, sweet flavor. Spread a generous amount on top of your patty for an irresistible addition.
Bacon: Bacon lovers rejoice! Adding crispy bacon to your crack burger will elevate the taste and texture. The smoky, salty goodness of bacon pairs exceptionally well with the juicy patty. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and place it on top of the patty for a burst of flavor with every bite.
Cheese: No burger is complete without cheese, and crack burgers are no exception. Opt for a melty cheese like cheddar, American, or Swiss. Place a slice of cheese on top of the patty during the final moments of grilling, allowing it to melt and create a gooey, cheesy delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties.
Divide the mixture into equal portions, depending on how big you want your patties to be. A good rule of thumb is around 1/3 to 1/2 pound per patty. Shape each portion into a round patty, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, cook for 4 minutes per side. For medium, cook for 5 minutes per side. Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in dry burgers.
During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty to melt. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
Once the patties are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier patty.
Now that you have your perfectly cooked crack burgers, it’s time to move on to the next step: adding the finishing touches.
With these sauce and topping recommendations, you can create a personalized crack burger packed with flavors that suit your taste preferences. The combinations are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect match.