Crack Burgers are juicy, cheesy burgers that are simply irresistible! With a perfect blend of spices and a gooey cheese melt, these burgers are a real treat for your taste buds.
Let’s face it, once you take a bite, it might be hard to stop! I love serving them with some crispy fries, and trust me, they’re always a hit at gatherings! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. The fat keeps them moist during cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or lean beef also works, just be cautious as they can dry out more easily.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds fantastic flavor and crunch. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon can be a tasty substitute. Just ensure it’s nice and crispy to match the texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. If cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap in Swiss or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for our sauce. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative. Vegans can try vegan mayo or avocado for creaminess.
Sriracha: Adjust the heat according to your taste! For a milder version, try ketchup mixed with a bit of hot sauce, or skip the spice altogether if you prefer a milder sauce.
How Do I Make My Burgers Cook Evenly?
Making sure burgers cook evenly is crucial for the perfect bite. Here’s how you can achieve that:
- When forming patties, make a slight indent in the center. This helps them maintain an even shape as they cook.
- Be sure to preheat the grill or skillet. A hot cooking surface helps seal in juices and flavors right away.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Letting them cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping enhances the crispy crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Ideally, aim for 160°F for well-done burgers.
Enjoy your Crack Burgers with these tips for a delicious and juicy experience!
How to Make Delicious Crack Burgers!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 lb crispy cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced pickles
- Lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes around 20-30 minutes from start to finish. You will spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the burgers, plus some time for assembling everything. It’s a quick and tasty meal you’ll love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the chopped bacon. Be sure to season with a pinch of salt and pepper, but be careful not to add too much salt since the bacon is already salty. Mix until well combined!
2. Form the Patties:
Now it’s time to shape your burgers! Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and form them into patties. Make a slight indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly—it’ll help keep them flat when they cook!
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the burger patties. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they form a nice crust. Then, flip the patties over. Quickly place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each burger, and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the burgers are cooked to your liking.
4. Make the Sauce:
While your burgers are cooking, let’s whip up a delicious sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and Dijon mustard. Stir well and taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more sriracha to your taste!
5. Toast the Buns:
Next, toast your hamburger buns! You can do this on the grill or in a skillet until they are golden and crispy. This adds great flavor and keeps the buns from getting soggy.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to build your burgers! Start by spreading a generous amount of the sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy beef patty on top, and add any optional garnishes like pickles and lettuce to make it even yummier! Finally, cap it with the top bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Crack Burgers immediately while they’re hot and gooey. Enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but be aware that they can be drier than beef. To keep them juicy, you might want to add a little extra moisture, like some olive oil or a splash of chicken broth when mixing.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
To amp up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a spicier hot sauce in addition to the sriracha. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the sriracha to 1 tablespoon or substitute it with BBQ sauce for a sweeter, less spicy kick.
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can! Form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before cooking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, just until warmed through. If you want to keep the bun fresh, store it separately and toast just before serving!
