Crack Burgers are the ultimate game-changer in the world of burgers! With a blend of savory ground chuck, creamy sour cream, zesty ranch dressing, and the irresistible crunch of bacon, these burgers promise to elevate your cookout experience to new heights. Whether you’re grilling for a weekend gathering or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become your new go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb (680 g) ground chuck
- 3 Tbsp (45 ml) sour cream
- 2 Tbsp (30 g) ranch dressing mix
- ⅓ cup (40 g) cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Hamburger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Mustard
- Mayo (for topping)
Directions
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In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined using your hands or a sturdy spoon. Beginner Note: Don’t overmix the meat, as this can result in tough burgers. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor.
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Form the mixture into 6 hamburger patties. To ensure even cooking, try to make the patties the same size and thickness. Use a burger press or the lid of a container to help shape the patties. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty before grilling. This will help prevent the burgers from puffing up in the middle. Beginner Note: Wet your hands with cold water before forming the patties to prevent the meat from sticking. Make sure the patties are not too thick to ensure proper cooking.
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Grill the patties to your desired doneness, being careful as the burgers will be very moist. Use a grill pan, outdoor grill, or even a skillet on the stovetop. Cook the burgers over medium heat. Flip them carefully to avoid breaking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
Beginner Note: Don’t press down on the patties while they are grilling, as this will release the juices and make the burgers dry. Preheat the grill or skillet before adding the patties, and use a timer for even cooking. Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
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Serve the burgers on your favorite hamburger buns, topped with lettuce, tomato, mustard, and mayo. You can add other toppings, such as pickles, onions, avocado, or your favorite condiments. Beginner Note: Toast the buns for a crispier texture and consider using a variety of toppings to create a unique burger experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutrition Info (per burger without toppings): Approx. 350 calories, 24 g fat, 1 g carbs, 30 g protein.
How to serve
When serving your Crack Burgers, stack them high with fresh lettuce and tomato to add a burst of freshness. Provide a selection of condiments like mustard, mayo, and even BBQ sauce to cater to different taste preferences. For an added touch, consider offering sides such as sweet potato fries or a crisp coleslaw, which pair perfectly with the rich flavors of these burgers. Feel free to get creative with toppings; avocado slices, crispy onions, or spicy jalapeños can take your burger experience to the next level!
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck?
Yes, you can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that turkey and chicken are leaner, so you may want to add a bit more moisture to the mixture.
2. How do I store leftover burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can form the patties up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you are ready to grill them. For longer storage, freeze the patties and thaw them in the fridge before cooking.