Crack Burgers Bacon Cheddar Ranch

These Crack Burgers are everything a burger lover dreams about juicy patties full of cheesy tangy flavor thanks to a special blend of ranch and bacon tucked right inside the ground chuck. I make these whenever friends come over for a cookout and someone always asks for the recipe before the night is over.

I had my doubts the first time but my family went wild for these burgers and now they are our barbecue staple everyone wants seconds

Ingredients

• Ground chuck: for rich flavor and plenty of juiciness look for meat with at least fifteen percent fat
• Sour cream: helps keep the burger moist and adds a subtle creaminess choose full fat for best results
• Ranch dressing mix: brings savory herby notes opt for a good quality mix for maximum flavor
• Cooked crumbled bacon: delivers smoky crunch use thick cut and cook until crisp
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into the patty for gooey richness try sharp cheddar for extra tang
• Hamburger buns: pick ones that are sturdy enough to hold these loaded patties
• Lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayonnaise, and any favorite toppings: fresh and crisp vegetables add balance and texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the Mix:

In a large mixing bowl add the ground chuck sour cream ranch dressing mix crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to gently fold everything together until the mixture is just blended The key is to mix only until combined to avoid tough patties

Shape the Patties:

Divide the meat mixture into six equal portions With cold and slightly damp hands gently form each portion into a patty that is uniform in thickness For the best results press a shallow dimple in the middle of each patty so they stay flat while grilling

Grill to Perfection:

Preheat your grill skillet or grill pan to medium heat Place the patties onto the hot cooking surface and cook without pressing down so the juices stay inside Flip carefully about halfway through cooking Cook to your liking using a meat thermometer for accuracy Remember medium rare is about one hundred thirty to one hundred thirty five degrees Fahrenheit and well done is one hundred sixty degrees Let the burgers rest a few minutes after cooking

Assemble and Serve:

Lay each patty onto a toasted hamburger bun Top with lettuce tomato a squeeze of mayo and mustard or any toppings you love Serve right away for maximal juiciness To make it extra special set up a toppings bar for your guests

Save

Nothing beats the way cheddar cheese melts inside these burgers making every bite rich and delicious My kids always ask for seconds and love building their own burgers on burger night

Storage Tips

Store any cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven to keep them juicy For longer storage freeze the cooked patties separated with parchment for up to two months Thaw overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the ground chuck for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version Just be sure to add extra sour cream so the patties stay moist If you do not have ranch mix try using onion soup mix or your favorite spice blend The cheese can be changed to Monterey jack or a blend of your favorites

Serving Suggestions

These burgers shine with classic toppings like crisp lettuce thick sliced tomato and creamy mayo but you can also add avocado pickled onions or spicy jalapeños Serve with oven fries or a cool pasta salad for a complete meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Stuffing flavor boosters right into the patty is a bit of an American backyard tradition It makes every bite bold and juicy This recipe takes inspiration from diner style burgers but puts all the craveable extras right in the mix so you get bacon cheesy ranch goodness even without a ton of condiments on top

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the burgers juicy?

Mix the meat gently and avoid overworking it. Adding sour cream helps retain moisture while cooking.

→ What is the best method for shaping the patties?

Wet your hands with cold water before forming the patties and gently press a dimple in the center of each for even cooking.

→ How do I know when the burgers are done?

Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 140-145°F for medium and 160°F for well-done. Let patties rest before serving.

→ Can I cook these burgers in a skillet?

Absolutely. Use a grill pan or regular skillet over medium heat, flipping carefully due to the moist mixture.

→ What toppings pair well with these burgers?

Lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, pickles, onions, or avocado all complement the savory flavors.

→ Should I toast the buns?

Toasting the buns adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy from the juicy patties.