Crack Burgers

Some recipes get their names for a reason, and Crack Burgers are definitely one of them. The first time I made these, I thought, “Okay, it’s just a burger with some cheese and ranch, how different can it be?” But wow. One bite and I finally understood the hype. Juicy, flavorful, cheesy, with a little smoky bacon mixed right in—it’s the kind of burger that makes you want seconds (and maybe even thirds).

They’ve officially become my “special weekend burger,” the one I pull out when I want to wow friends and family without doing anything overly complicated.

What Are Crack Burgers?

Crack Burgers are juicy burgers made with ground beef (or chicken/turkey) mixed with ranch seasoning, shredded cheese, and bacon, then grilled or pan-fried until golden. They’re rich, savory, and a little indulgent—basically the ultimate crowd-pleaser burger.

Why This Recipe Is Special

What sets these burgers apart is that the flavor is built right into the patty. Instead of just topping your burger with cheese and bacon, you mix them straight into the meat along with ranch seasoning. The result? Every bite is loaded with smoky, cheesy, savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed patties – No boring burgers here.
• Crowd pleaser – Perfect for cookouts, game day, or weeknight indulgence.
• Customizable – Works with beef, chicken, or turkey.
• Juicy & cheesy – That melty-cheese-in-the-middle magic.
• Fun & memorable – Definitely not your everyday burger.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To combine the burger mixture.
• Skillet or grill – For cooking the patties.
• Spatula or tongs – To flip burgers.
• Meat thermometer – Helpful for checking doneness.

Ingredients (Makes 4 burgers)

• 1 lb ground beef (450 g) – 80/20 for juiciness
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (50 g)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz / 28 g)
• 1 egg (optional, helps bind)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• Toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, extra cheese, ranch or mayo

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the patties: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently (overmixing can make them tough).
2. Shape the burgers: Form into 4 equal patties, pressing a slight indentation in the center so they cook evenly.
3. Cook: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high. Cook burgers 4–5 minutes per side (or until internal temp reaches 160°F / 71°C for beef).
4. Toast the buns: While burgers finish, toast buns lightly for extra flavor and sturdiness.
5. Assemble: Place patties on buns and load up with toppings—classic lettuce and tomato, extra ranch drizzle, or even more cheese if you’re feeling bold.
6. Enjoy: Grab napkins, because things are about to get juicy.

Serving Ideas

• With crispy fries or onion rings.
• Paired with a fresh coleslaw for crunch.
• As sliders for game day or parties.

Variations & Customizations

• Chicken crack burgers: Swap beef for ground chicken and add mozzarella instead of cheddar.
• Spicy kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
• Low-carb option: Serve wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.
• Double stack: Go big with two patties and extra toppings.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Store cooked patties up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze raw or cooked patties (wrapped individually) for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low to keep them juicy.

Pro Tips (From Me to You)

• Indent the patties. A small dip in the center prevents them from puffing up while cooking.
• Don’t overmix. Gentle mixing keeps the patties tender.
• Let them rest. Just 2–3 minutes before serving helps the juices redistribute.
• Cheese inside & out. Mixing cheese into the patties and topping with more makes them unforgettable.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using super lean beef—it can dry out. Stick with 80/20 for juiciness.
• Overcooking—the patties can get tough.
• Skipping the bun toast—adds texture and keeps things from getting soggy.

Recipe Card

• Yield: 4 burgers
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Nutrition (per burger, approx., without toppings):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 25 g (from bun)
• Fat: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 3 g

A Juicy Send-Off

Crack Burgers are the kind of recipe that take a simple backyard burger night and make it unforgettable. They’re cheesy, smoky, and packed with flavor from the inside out. Once you try them, you’ll understand why people call them “crack”—they’re just that addictive.

If you make them, let me know how you topped yours, classic lettuce and tomato, spicy jalapeños, or maybe even more bacon? However you stack them, I know they’ll disappear fast.