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This hearty Crack Burger has become my secret weapon for weekend cookouts. The name might raise eyebrows, but one bite explains everything—these burgers truly capture you with their rich, complex flavors that keep pulling you back for just one more taste.
I first made these burgers after a viewer shared the recipe, skeptical about the "addictive" claim. Three burgers later that same evening, I had to admit he was absolutely right. Now they're requested at every family gathering.
- Ground beef: Use 80/20 for the perfect fat content that keeps burgers juicy
- Sour cream: Creates incredible moisture and tenderness throughout the patty
- Ranch dressing powder: The secret flavor booster that makes these truly addictive
- Cooked bacon: Adds smoky depth and textural contrast to every bite
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for the most pronounced flavor
- Kosher salt: The larger crystals distribute better throughout the meat
- Black pepper: Use freshly ground for maximum flavor impact
- Neutral oil: Helps create the perfect sear without adding competing flavors
- Mayo: Forms the base of our special sauce with perfect creaminess
- Grainy mustard: Provides texture and tanginess to balance the rich burger
- Chili sauce: Western style adds a subtle sweetness and gentle heat
- Buns: Choose brioche or potato rolls for best flavor complement
- Lettuce and tomato: Fresh, crisp elements that balance the richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Patty Mixture:
- Combine ground beef, sour cream, ranch dressing powder, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently using your hands until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat as this can make your burgers tough instead of tender. The mixture will feel unusually soft compared to traditional burgers.
- Form the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into three equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than your buns as they will shrink during cooking. Create a slight dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up during cooking. The patties will be softer than traditional burgers due to the added ingredients.
- Heat the Cooking Surface:
- Heat your griddle or cast iron pan over medium high heat until hot but not smoking. Add a light coating of neutral oil to prevent sticking and create a beautiful sear. The proper heat ensures a good crust while allowing the inside to cook properly.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Place the patties carefully onto the hot surface and cook for approximately 4 minutes on the first side until nicely browned. Flip gently using a wide spatula as these patties are more delicate than traditional burgers. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes depending on your preferred doneness. Remember that carryover cooking will continue after removing from heat.
- Prepare the Special Sauce:
- While the burgers cook, combine mayo, grainy mustard, and chili sauce in a small bowl. Stir until well blended and set aside. This sauce provides the perfect creamy, tangy complement to the rich burger patties.
- Toast the Buns:
- Split your buns and place cut side down on the cooking surface for about 30 seconds until golden and lightly crisp. The toasting prevents soggy buns and adds another textural element to the finished burger.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spread a generous amount of the special sauce on both top and bottom buns. Place each cooked patty on a bottom bun, then top with fresh lettuce and sliced tomato. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately while hot.
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The ranch dressing powder is truly the star ingredient here. I tried making these once without it, thinking the other flavors would compensate, but the result was noticeably less exciting. Something about the herbs and buttermilk flavors in the ranch powder creates the perfect foundation that makes everything else shine.
Make-Ahead Options
These Crack Burgers actually benefit from a little rest time in the refrigerator. You can prepare the patties up to 4 hours ahead, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the patties firm up slightly, making them easier to handle during cooking. The sauce can also be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
While these burgers are certainly satisfying on their own, they pair beautifully with crispy sweet potato fries or a simple vinegar-based coleslaw. The acidity of these sides helps cut through the richness of the burger. For drinks, try a cold craft beer with citrus notes or a simple lemonade that refreshes the palate between bites.
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Variations To Try
The basic Crack Burger recipe creates a wonderful foundation for experimentation. For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture and substitute pepper jack for the cheddar. Going gourmet? Try blue cheese instead of cheddar and top with caramelized onions. For a lighter option, ground turkey works surprisingly well with these same mix-ins, though you might want to increase the sour cream slightly to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes these burgers so flavorful?
The combination of ranch dressing powder, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a zesty sauce creates a unique and robust flavor profile.
- → How should I cook the patties?
Cook the patties on medium-high heat in a griddle or cast-iron pan until they reach your desired doneness. Be gentle flipping them as they are soft.
- → What type of sauce is used for these burgers?
The sauce is a blend of mayo, grainy mustard, and Western-style chili sauce, providing a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests lettuce and tomato, you can add onions, pickles, or even avocado for a personal touch.
- → How many burgers does this recipe make?
The recipe makes 3 burgers, perfect for a small gathering or family meal.