Fire up your grill and get ready for your new favorite burger recipe—Crack Burgers! These ultra-juicy, flavor-packed burgers are made with ground chuck, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning for an irresistibly savory bite every time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd at your next BBQ or just want a no-fuss dinner that delivers major flavor, this easy burger recipe is a guaranteed win. Beginner-friendly and bursting with texture, these burgers are a cheesy, smoky, and meaty masterpiece that will quickly earn a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Big flavor with minimal effort: Just a few ingredients give you huge taste payoff.
- Beginner-friendly: Easy prep and cooking tips make it perfect for all skill levels.
- Ultra-juicy: Sour cream and cheese keep the burgers moist and rich.
- Great for BBQs or weeknights: Quick enough for busy nights, but impressive enough for parties.
- Customizable: Change up the cheese, toppings, or add heat for your ideal burger.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground chuck (1½ lbs): Opt for 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- Sour cream (3 Tbsp): Adds richness and keeps the patties juicy.
- Ranch dressing mix (2 Tbsp): Packs the patties with bold, herby flavor.
- Cooked, crumbled bacon (⅓ cup): Salty, crispy bacon adds a smoky depth.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the meat for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Hamburger buns: Use your favorite brand or bakery-style buns for best results.
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo—or get creative with avocado, onions, or pickles.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Prepare the Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chuck, sour cream, ranch mix, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon just until combined—don’t overmix or the burgers may turn out tough.
Form the Burgers
- Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape into patties of even thickness.
- Press a slight dimple into the center of each patty to prevent puffing up while grilling.
Grill the Patties
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Grill the patties for about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness.
- Use a thermometer: 130–135°F for medium-rare, 140–145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done.
- Let burgers rest for 3–5 minutes off the heat before serving to lock in juices.
Assemble & Serve
- Toast buns if desired. Place patties on bottom buns.
- Top with lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, or your favorite burger toppings.
- Serve hot with fries, chips, or your favorite side dish!
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the meat can lead to dense, dry burgers.
- Use cold hands: Wet or chill your hands slightly to keep the mixture from sticking while forming patties.
- Keep an eye on cheese: These burgers have lots of cheese, so flip carefully to avoid sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Especially important for beginner cooks to avoid overcooking.
- Toast the buns: Adds texture and prevents soggy bottoms from juicy burgers.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Different cheese: Try pepper jack for heat or gouda for smokiness.
- No bacon? Substitute turkey bacon or crispy fried onions.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mix.
- Ground turkey option: Sub ground turkey or chicken for a lighter burger.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic sides: Serve with sweet potato fries, tater tots, or kettle chips.
- Fresh sides: Pair with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a summer pasta salad.
- Drinks: Cold beer, iced tea, or lemonade make perfect pairings.
- Barbecue setup: Offer burger toppings in a build-your-own-burger bar for guests.
Storage, Freezing, & Reheating Instructions
- To store: Keep cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze (uncooked): Place shaped patties on a baking sheet to freeze, then store in a zip-top bag with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To reheat: Warm cooked burgers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make Crack Burgers in advance?
Yes! You can shape the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them (covered) for up to 24 hours before grilling.
Can I bake Crack Burgers instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 375°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
What’s the best way to keep burgers juicy?
Don’t overmix the meat and avoid pressing the patties down while grilling. Let them rest after cooking to retain moisture.
Do I need to use ranch dressing mix?
It’s highly recommended for the signature flavor, but you can use your own homemade seasoning blend if preferred.
Closing Thoughts + Call to Action
Once you try these Crack Burgers, there’s no going back. The rich combo of bacon, ranch, and cheddar in a juicy beef patty is pure comfort food heaven—and it couldn’t be easier to make. Whether you’re grilling out with friends or looking for a low-effort dinner that delivers big-time flavor, this recipe hits the spot every single time. Don’t forget to leave a review, pin this recipe to your favorite burger board on Pinterest, and try our Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers or Loaded Mac and Cheese Bites next!