Nothing beats a delicious, messy burger, packed to the brim with flavors, and that’s exactly what makes this Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger irresistible. It oozes smoky, cheesy crunchiness and whips up in no time at all. The ranch is ranchy, the BBQ is sweet, and the Doritos are fun for the crunchy topping that takes it right over the top.

What is Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger All About?

This burger is a playful twist on a classic smash burger. You get:

Crispy beef patties smashed thin for maximum flavor
Melted cheese that hugs the meat perfectly
A layer of crushed Doritos for crunch
BBQ sauce and ranch dressing that balance smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors

It’s basically your favorite cookout burger turned into a next-level comfort food.

Ingredients

For the burger

1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
4 burger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
1 tbsp butter

For toppings

1 cup Doritos (BBQ or Nacho, crushed)
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Lettuce leaves

Instructions

Prep the skillet: Preheat the cast-iron skillet or griddle medium-high.
Divide the beef into four loose balls (don’t overwork) to form patties.
Smash and cook: Lay the beef on the hot skillet and smash it down with a spatula. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until crispy, then flip.
Place a cheese slice on top of each patty and allow it to melt.
Butter buns, then toast till golden brown.
Assemble: A dollop of BBQ on the bottom bun, onto which lettuce, burger patty, onion, ranch drizzle, and top with crushed Doritos.
Finish with a top bun; press down slightly and dig in!
Store patties separately in airtight food containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
They can be reheated on a skillet and assembled with fresh Doritos and sauces.

Storage Tips

Best eaten fresh for the crunch.
Store patties separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat on a skillet, then assemble with fresh Doritos and sauces.

Serving Suggestions

Gratifyingly filled with sweet potato fries or onion rings.
Combine it with a glossy cold soda or chilled milkshake for that diner-inspired vibe.
Host mini slider parties – just use those small buns.

Pro Tips & Variations

Add in some tasty pepper jack cheese if you are someone who likes a little bit of extra spice in your bite.
Zing it up with Cool Ranch Doritos.
Add bacon for smoky crunchiness.
Feeling especially hungry: Go for a double-stack.

FAQs

1. Can I make it a little less spicy?

Sure! Just take plain ranch, mild BBQ sauce, along with some Nacho Cheese Doritos, forgoing the spicy ones.

2. Can I substitute chicken for beef?

Sure. Ground chicken can be used just like turkey, provided that it is seasoned well enough to not be bland.

3. Is this burger gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and confirm from your BBQ Sauce and ranch labels. Doritos Nacho Cheese has no gluten, but there are some other flavors that are gluten-free.

4. What is the best way to crush Doritos?

Put them in your zip-top bag and press by hand or roll it. You want to achieve crunchy bits, not powder.

Try It!

This Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger has delicious messiness: crispy, cheesy, and crunchy with every bite. It is that type of burger which makes one lick fingers clean. Believe me; it will be your go-to once you’ve tried it.