Name: Crack Burgers: Your New Go-To Burger Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb ground chuck; 3 Tbsp sour cream; 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 hamburger buns; Lettuce; Tomato slices; Mustard; Mayonnaise

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Introduction

Crack Burgers are a flavorful twist on the classic hamburger, packed with cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and a creamy touch of sour cream. This easy recipe delivers juicy, perfectly seasoned patties that will quickly become your new go-to for burger night.

Four round patties are placed on a piece of white crinkled paper inside a white bowl. Each patty shows a mix of dark red and brown colors with melted yellow cheese spread unevenly on top, giving a slightly crispy look. The patties have a textured surface with visible grains and small bits, showing they are cooked and firm. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ lb ground chuck
3 Tbsp sour cream
2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Hamburger buns
Lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently with your hands or a sturdy spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into 6 evenly sized patties. Wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking and press a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties to your preferred doneness, flipping carefully to keep them intact. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done. Do not press down on the patties while cooking.
Step 4: Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve on toasted hamburger buns with lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, and any other toppings you enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon to the mixture before forming patties.
Toast the buns lightly on the grill or in a skillet to add a crispy texture.
Swap ranch dressing mix for your favorite seasoning blend for a different taste profile.

Storage

Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Uncooked patties can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

How to Serve

A thick burger sits centered on a round wooden board, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a soft, shiny golden-brown bun with a spread of creamy white sauce. On top is a crisp, bright green leaf of lettuce, followed by a thick slice of red tomato. Above the tomato are two juicy, browned beef patties, stacked and covered with melted yellow cheddar cheese. A layer of white sauce tops the patties, topped finally by the smooth top bun which has a small skewer pierced through its center. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef other than chuck for this recipe?

Yes, but ground chuck is preferred for its higher fat content, which keeps the burgers juicy and flavorful. Leaner beef may result in drier patties.

What can I use if I don’t have ranch dressing mix?

You can substitute ranch dressing mix with a combination of dried herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley to achieve a similar flavor.