It started with a backyard cookout and a pack of ground beef that needed using up. I mixed in what I had on hand—bacon, cheddar, a spoonful of sour cream—and by the time the burgers hit the grill, the smell had my neighbors wandering over “just to say hi.” These crack burgers were gone in minutes, and now they’re a regular request.
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Why You’ll Love These Crack Burgers
Crack burgers are absolutely packed with flavor and texture. The crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the shredded cheddar melts beautifully into every bite. Thanks to the ranch seasoning and sour cream, these burgers stay juicy and tender without needing extra fuss.
You can cook them on the grill or in a skillet—they’re fast either way and perfect for busy nights.
Crack burgers are also ideal for casual cookouts or laid-back family dinners. Guests love how bold and satisfying they are, and you can easily switch up toppings to suit any mood.
Whether you load them with fresh tomato and lettuce or keep it classic with mayo and mustard, these burgers always hit the spot. Best of all, they’re ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Burger Mix
- Ground chuck (1½ lb): This has just the right fat content for juicy, flavorful burgers.
- Sour cream (3 Tbsp): Adds moisture and helps the patties stay soft.
- Ranch dressing mix (2 Tbsp): A shortcut to bold, herby flavor.
- Cooked crumbled bacon (⅓ cup): Smoky, salty bits in every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts right into the meat for gooey goodness.
For Serving
- Hamburger buns : Go for soft brioche or potato rolls for a nice bite.
- Lettuce, tomato, mayo, mustard : Optional, but classic and refreshing.
Substitutions & Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these:
- Cheese : Use Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a different kick.
- Protein : Ground turkey or plant-based meat works well too.
- Seasonings : Swap the ranch mix for Italian herbs, taco mix, or garlic powder.
- Bacon : Use turkey bacon, jalapeño bacon, or skip for a vegetarian version.
How to Make Crack Burgers (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Mix Your Burger Blend
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch mix, bacon, and cheddar.
Use your hands or a big spoon, but stop mixing as soon as everything looks evenly combined. Overmixing can make your burgers tough.
Step 2 – Shape Perfect Patties
Divide the mix into 6 equal portions. With cold or wet hands, gently shape each into a patty.
Press a small dimple in the center of each one. This helps the burgers cook evenly and keeps them from puffing up in the middle.
Step 3 – Cook to Juicy Perfection
Heat a grill or skillet over medium. Add patties and cook without pressing down.
Cook times will vary slightly by thickness, but here’s a quick guide:
- Medium-rare : 130–135°F
- Medium : 140–145°F
- Well-done : 160°F
Use a meat thermometer for best results. Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep the juices in.
Step 4 – Toast and Assemble
While the burgers rest, take a moment to toast your buns—either in a skillet or right on the grill. This adds a little crunch and warmth that takes the final burger to the next level.
Then, pile on your favorite toppings. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, creamy mayo, and tangy mustard make a classic combo. Or switch it up with pickles or spicy sauce.
Once it’s stacked? Just bite in.
Pro Tips for Perfect Burgers Every Time
- Keep your hands cold or damp when forming patties.
- Don’t mash the meat when mixing or shaping.
- Use a thermometer for ideal doneness.
- Always let burgers rest before serving.
- Want to prep ahead? Form and chill patties up to a day in advance.
- You can also freeze them (uncooked) for later.
What to Serve with Crack Burgers
You can’t go wrong with crispy fries or onion rings. Coleslaw and potato salad are great summer options too.
If you’re hosting, offer cold drinks or a fun mocktail bar. Crack burgers also pair wonderfully with classic BBQ sides like baked beans or grilled corn.
Want more ideas? Check out these perfect side dish ideas like cheesy chicken spaghetti for a cozy pairing.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Got leftover crack burgers? No problem. Just store them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge — they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in a skillet or low oven set to 300°F. This keeps them juicy without drying out, which often happens in the microwave.
If you plan ahead, you can also freeze the uncooked patties. Stack them between parchment paper and seal them tightly in a freezer bag. They’ll hold up beautifully and save you time later. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just managing extras, crack burgers are easy to store, reheat, and enjoy all over again.
Explore Similar Recipes
If these crack burgers hit the spot, you’ll love these too:
Try this creamy crockpot crack chicken for sandwich lovers . It’s rich, cheesy, and slow-cooker friendly.
For something lighter, check out this easy ground turkey and zucchini skillet as a healthy swap .
And for cookouts, these crowd-favorite tortilla wrap recipes for your next BBQ are always a hit.
Crack Burgers Recipe Card
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Crack Burgers (The Ultimate Juiciest Bacon-Cheddar Burger Recipe)
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Crack burgers are juicy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon and ranch flavor. Quick to make and even easier to enjoy, these burgers are the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or laid-back BBQs.
Ingredients
1½ lb ground chuck
3 Tbsp sour cream
2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Hamburger buns
Lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo (for topping)
Instructions
1. Combine ground chuck, sour cream, ranch mix, bacon, and cheddar in a large bowl. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
2. Form into 6 equal-sized patties with a dimple in the center of each.
3. Grill or pan-fry over medium heat to desired doneness (130–135°F for medium-rare, 140–145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done). Do not press down on patties while cooking.
4. Let rest before serving on buns with desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo.
Notes
Don’t overmix the meat; it will make burgers tough.
Use cold or wet hands to form patties easily.
Pressing a dimple in the patty center helps prevent puffing.
Don’t press patties while cooking to retain juices.
Toasting buns adds texture.
Customize toppings or cheeses as preferred.
Alternative proteins: turkey, chicken, plant-based meat.
Cheese options: Monterey Jack, Colby, pepper jack, Mexican blend.
Ranch mix alternatives: taco or Italian seasoning, herbs, garlic/onion powder.
Bacon alternatives: turkey bacon, jalapeño bacon, or omit for vegetarian.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Grilling, Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
FAQs About Crack Burgers
Why are my crack burgers falling apart?
They might be too hot when you cook them or not mixed well. Chill potatoes before grilling and avoid overmixing.
What are the ingredients for crack burgers?
Ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, bacon, cheddar cheese, and your favorite toppings on a bun.
What is the best binder for burgers?
Fat from the beef usually binds well, but the sour cream here adds extra moisture and hold.
Why do people put crackers in burgers?
Some folks use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs as a binder. For these crack burgers, we skip it since the sour cream and cheese do the job perfectly.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Burger Night Staple
Crack burgers bring bold flavor without the fuss. They’re juicy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with everything you crave in a burger — no extra effort required. From the first bite, you get that irresistible mix of crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and rich ranch-seasoned beef.
They cook fast, which makes them perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want a meal that feels special but doesn’t take all day. Whether you’re feeding picky kids who just want something tasty or impressing your friends with a backyard grill session, crack burgers always hit the spot.
They’re easy to love, easy to customize, and even easier to devour. Dress them up with fresh toppings or keep it simple with melty cheese and toasted buns. Either way, these burgers belong in your regular rotation. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite go-to recipe.
If you try them, I’d love to hear your twist! Tag me over on Instagram or share your plate on Pinterest .
Happy cooking, friend.