Crack Burger (Print Version)
A decadent beef burger topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a tangy creamy ranch sauce on a toasted brioche bun.
# What You Need:
→ Burger Patties
01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
02 - 1 tsp kosher salt
03 - ½ tsp black pepper
04 - ½ tsp garlic powder
→ Crack Sauce
05 - ½ cup mayonnaise
06 - ¼ cup sour cream
07 - ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
08 - 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
09 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
→ Toppings
10 - 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
11 - 4 slices cheddar cheese
12 - 4 brioche burger buns, toasted
13 - 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
14 - 1 large tomato, sliced
15 - ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
16 - Dill pickle slices (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Form into 4 equal patties, pressing a slight indentation into the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking.
02 - Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
03 - Cook the bacon until crispy; drain on paper towels and set aside.
04 - Grill or pan-fry the burger patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese, cover, and let melt.
05 - In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, and chives. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
06 - Toast the brioche buns until golden brown.
07 - Spread crack sauce on both halves of each bun. Layer with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and onion. Place the cheesy burger patty on the bottom half, top with 2 slices of bacon, and add pickles if desired. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The homemade crack sauce tastes even better than restaurant versions
- Everything comes together in just 30 minutes for a impressive weeknight dinner
02 -
- Do not overwork the meat when forming patties or they will become tough and dense
- Let the burgers rest for a couple minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute evenly
03 -
- Grind your own beef from chuck roast for the freshest, most flavorful patties
- Butter and toast the buns in the same pan you cooked the bacon in for extra flavor