Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
Burger Assembly
- 4 brioche burger buns (toasted)
- 4 tablespoons bacon jam (plus more if desired)
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Green leaf lettuce or butter lettuce
- Dill pickle chips (optional)
Special Sauce
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to maintain tenderness.
- Form patties: Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty slightly wider than your buns. Press a small indent into the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing up.
- Cook the burgers: Heat a skillet, grill pan, or grill over medium-high heat. Cook each patty for about 3 to 4 minutes per side or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.
- Melt the cheese: During the last minute of cooking, top each burger patty with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cover briefly if necessary to help the cheese melt evenly over the patties.
- Make the special sauce: While the burgers cook, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, Dijon mustard, pickle juice (or apple cider vinegar), and hot sauce if using in a bowl. Mix well to create a creamy and tangy sauce.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread a little of the special sauce on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun, then add a leaf of green or butter lettuce. Place the cheesy burger patty on top, spoon over bacon jam, then add thinly sliced red onions and dill pickle chips if desired. Finish with the top bun.
- Serve: Serve the Crack Burgers immediately while hot and juicy for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the ground beef to keep the patties tender.
- The indent in the burger patties helps them cook evenly and prevents bulging.
- Bacon jam adds a sweet and smoky flavor—feel free to add more to taste.
- Using brioche buns adds a rich, buttery softness to complement the savory burger.
- The special sauce can be adjusted for heat by adding more or less hot sauce.
- Pickles are optional but add a nice tangy crunch to balance the richness.
- Cook burgers to your preferred doneness, aiming for medium or medium-well for juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American