Crack Burgers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Burgers are everything you want in a burger—juicy, cheesy, smoky, and full of bold, crave-worthy flavor. The combination of bacon, ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar takes these burgers to a whole new level. They’re easy to prepare, customizable, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. One bite and you’ll understand why they’re called “crack” burgers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef (80/20 for the juiciest result)
  • Ranch seasoning mix
  • Cooked bacon, crumbled or whole strips
  • Shredded or sliced cheddar cheese
  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Mayonnaise
  • Burger buns
  • Butter or oil for toasting buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional toppings)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with ranch seasoning. Mix gently to combine without overworking the meat.
  2. Form the seasoned beef into burger patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each.
  3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cooked bacon until well combined. This is your “crack” topping.
  5. In the last minute of cooking, top each burger patty with cheddar cheese and cover to melt.
  6. Toast the buns lightly with butter or oil.
  7. Assemble the burgers: Place the patty on the bottom bun, add a generous scoop of the bacon-cream cheese mixture, and add any additional toppings.
  8. Top with the upper bun and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 large burgers. Total time is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Variations

  • Chicken Crack Burgers: Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the crack sauce.
  • Slider Style: Make mini patties for party-sized sliders.
  • Low Carb: Serve the burger in a lettuce wrap or on a low-carb bun.
  • Extra Cheesy: Mix some shredded cheddar directly into the burger patties.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat patties on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
The crack sauce can be served cold or brought to room temperature before spreading.
Freezing is possible, but best done with the patties only. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is a Crack Burger?

A Crack Burger typically refers to a burger topped with a creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled ranch mixture that makes it incredibly flavorful and hard to resist.

Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of seasoning?

No, ranch seasoning is key for mixing directly into the beef and sauce for a concentrated flavor punch.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but you can use pepper jack, Colby, or American cheese based on preference.

How do I keep the burgers juicy?

Use ground beef with at least 20% fat and avoid overcooking. Don’t press down on the patties while cooking.

Can I make the crack sauce ahead of time?

Yes, make it up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Let it sit out for a few minutes before spreading.

Can I grill these burgers?

Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.

Are Crack Burgers spicy?

Not typically, but you can make them spicy by adding hot sauce or jalapeños to the sauce.

What kind of buns work best?

Brioche buns are ideal for their softness and slight sweetness, but any good-quality hamburger bun will do.

Can I make these burgers dairy-free?

You’d need to use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream cheese alternative, but it’s doable with substitutions.

What can I serve with Crack Burgers?

Classic sides like fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a simple salad pair perfectly with these flavorful burgers.

Conclusion

Crack Burgers are a deliciously over-the-top twist on the classic cheeseburger, packed with bold flavors and a creamy, bacon-laced topping that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these burgers are guaranteed to be the star of the meal. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite burger.

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Crack Burgers

Crack Burgers

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Crack Burgers are juicy, cheesy, flavor-packed burgers topped with a creamy ranch-cheese sauce that makes them downright addictive. Perfect for cookouts, game days, or any burger craving.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 burgers
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grill or Skillet
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or 1 cup shredded)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 4 burger buns
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil (for toasting buns)
  • Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional toppings)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with ranch seasoning. Mix gently to avoid overworking.
  2. Shape the mixture into 4 burger patties, pressing a slight indentation in the center of each.
  3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cooked  until smooth. Set aside.
  5. In the last minute of cooking, top patties with cheddar cheese. Cover briefly to melt.
  6. Toast the buns lightly in butter or oil until golden.
  7. Assemble the burgers: bottom bun, patty with melted cheese, a scoop of the -cream cheese “crack” topping, and optional veggies.
  8. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use brioche buns for the best texture and flavor.
  • Ground chicken or turkey works as a lighter alternative.
  • For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the crack topping.
  • Make the crack sauce up to 2 days ahead and store in the refrigerator.
  • Cook patties over medium-high heat without pressing them down to keep them juicy.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger
  • Calories: 780
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 1220mg
  • Fat: 52g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 25g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg
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