Crack Burgers
These juicy crack burgers are addictive, featuring a special seasoning mix and a unique cooking technique that delivers crispy edges and a super juicy interior.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 is best – don’t go too lean or you’ll lose the juiciness)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (this is key for the addictive flavor)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth but you can skip if you don’t have it)
- 1 egg (helps bind everything together)
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers (what makes these crack burgers special – Ritz work great but any butter crackers will do)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (fresh garlic works too but powder mixes better)
- 1 tsp onion powder (gives flavor without the chunks some people hate)
- to taste Salt and pepper be generous with the pepper
For the Special Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo (full fat tastes best but light works if ur watching calories)
- 2 tbsp ketchup (adds sweetness and tanginess)
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow is classic but dijon works too)
- 1 tbsp pickle juice (secret ingredient that makes all the difference!)
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional if you like a kick)
For Serving
- 6 pieces burger buns (brioche is amazing but any kind works)
- to taste Sliced cheese (American melts best but cheddar or pepper jack are great too)
- to taste Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles (whatever toppings u like)
- as needed Butter for toasting buns (makes a huge difference!)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, egg, crushed crackers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands – don’t overwork the meat or your crack burgers will be tough! Mix just until combined, about 30 seconds of mixing.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 mins while you prep other ingredients – this helps the flavors meld together.
Forming Patties
- Divide mixture into 6 equal portions (makes generous sized crack burgers!).
- Form into patties slightly larger than your buns – they’ll shrink when cooking.
- Press your thumb into the center of each patty to make a dimple – this prevents them from puffing up.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit more ranch seasoning on both sides.
Cooking the Burgers
- Heat a cast iron skillet or grill to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a bit of oil.
- Cook patties for about 4-5 mins on first side until you see juices starting to come through the top.
- Flip once (don’t keep flipping!) and cook another 3-4 mins for medium doneness.
- Add cheese during the last minute of cooking and cover with a lid to help it melt perfectly.
- Remove burgers and let rest for 2-3 mins before serving – this keeps all those amazing juices inside.
Making the Special Sauce
- While burgers are cooking, mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Taste and adjust seasonings – want more kick? Add more hot sauce!
- Let the sauce sit in the fridge for a few mins for the flavors to develop.
Assembling the Burgers
- Butter the inside of your buns and toast them in a pan until golden – DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP!
- Spread special sauce on both bun halves.
- Place lettuce on bottom bun (prevents it from getting soggy from burger juices).
- Add your amazing crack burger patty with melted cheese.
- Top with your fav fixings and the top bun.
- Smash it down a bit so you can actually fit it in your mouth!
Notes
You can form the patties up to 24 hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Just place parchment paper between them so they don’t stick. They taste better when the flavors have time to meld together.