If you’re searching for a burger recipe that takes flavor to the next level, you’ve just hit the jackpot. These Crack Burgers are loaded with rich, savory ingredients that blend together to create a taste that’s downright addictive. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend barbecue or whipping up a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor in every juicy bite.
What Are Crack Burgers?
Crack Burgers get their name for a reason—they’re that good. These burgers are made with ground beef, ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and a bit of cream cheese to keep them tender and rich. The flavor combo is so bold and satisfying, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients for Crack Burgers
Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 hearty Crack Burgers:
Burger Patties:
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1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
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½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
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1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for added depth)
For Serving:
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4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
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Lettuce leaves
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Sliced tomatoes
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Red onion slices
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Pickles
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Your favorite burger sauces (mayo, ranch, or chipotle aioli)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large mixing bowl
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Skillet or grill
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Spatula or burger press
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Cutting board
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Knife
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Measuring spoons
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Tongs
Optional:
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Meat thermometer (to check for doneness)
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Grill pan if cooking indoors
How to Make Crack Burgers – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking your bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces. Set aside. If using leftover bacon, you can reheat it lightly before mixing.
Step 2: Make the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overwork the meat to avoid tough patties.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, about ¾ inch thick. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty—this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
You can grill the burgers or cook them in a skillet:
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Grill: Preheat to medium-high and cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a light layer of oil or butter, then cook burgers for about 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once.
Step 5: Toast the Buns (Optional but Recommended)
Toast your burger buns on the grill or skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Assemble the Crack Burgers
Place each patty on a toasted bun and top with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your choice of sauce. Serve hot and dig in!
Tips for the Best Crack Burgers
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Use 80/20 beef: Lean meat can result in dry burgers. The fat in 80/20 keeps them juicy and flavorful.
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Don’t overmix the meat: Mix just enough to incorporate ingredients. Overmixing leads to dense, tough burgers.
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Cook over medium heat: This allows the cheese and cream cheese to melt properly without burning the outside.
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Let burgers rest: After cooking, let the patties rest for a couple of minutes to retain their juices before serving.
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Customize your toppings: Try adding caramelized onions, avocado slices, or jalapeños for a twist.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Burger Without Toppings)
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Calories: ~580 kcal
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Protein: ~34g
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Fat: ~45g
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Carbohydrates: ~2g
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Fiber: ~0g
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Sugar: ~1g
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Sodium: ~800mg
Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredients and toppings used.
Why You’ll Love These Crack Burgers
These burgers aren’t just another cheeseburger—they’re a flavor-packed experience. The bacon adds smoky crunch, the cream cheese brings richness, and the ranch seasoning ties everything together with a savory punch. Add melty cheddar to the mix, and you’ve got a burger that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet food truck.
Perfect for cookouts, game days, or even casual weeknight dinners, Crack Burgers are easy to make and impossible to forget. Plus, they’re keto-friendly when served without the bun or with a low-carb alternative, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the ultimate burger that delivers on both taste and texture, Crack Burgers are a must-try. They’re rich, juicy, packed with layers of flavor, and customizable to your liking. Once you make them, they’re guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation.