Crack Burgers are juicy, mouth-watering sliders that pack a flavor punch. With a simple mix of ground beef and tasty seasonings, they get a delicious crust when cooked!
Trust me, these little burgers are addictively good! I love serving them at parties, and they always disappear fast. I say the messier, the better—get those napkins ready! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for the juiciest flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use ground turkey or chicken, but remember they might need more seasoning to stay flavorful.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can swap it for other types like American, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. I love using a mix of cheeses for different layers of flavor!
Burger Buns: While typical burger buns work great, you might also try brioche or whole wheat buns for a different taste and texture. Gluten-free buns are an excellent option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Mayonnaise Sauce: This sauce is customizable! You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based burger. The addition of pickle relish adds a nice crunch!
How Do I Form Perfect Burger Patties?
Shaping burger patties correctly can make a huge difference in the final result. Here’s how to do it:
- Divide the ground beef into four equal pieces, about 4 ounces each.
- Gently press each piece into a patty, about ¾ inch thick—don’t overwork the meat, or it can become tough!
- Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb, which helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
Taking care during this step ensures that your burgers cook evenly and stay juicy. Enjoy grilling them to perfection!
How to Make Crack Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp pickles, finely chopped (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: lettuce, tomato, or any other preferred toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crack Burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a little grilling, some mixing for the sauce, and in no time, you’ll be ready to enjoy these tasty burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill or Skillet:
Start by heating your grill or a stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. This will get your cooking surface nice and hot for the burgers.
2. Form and Season the Patties:
While the grill is warming up, take the ground beef and shape it into four equal patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help it cook evenly. Don’t forget to season both sides generously with salt and pepper—this is key for flavor!
3. Cook the Patties:
Once your grill is ready, place the patties on it and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side. When they’re nice and brown, flip them over carefully.
4. Add Cheese and Finish Cooking:
Right after flipping the patties, put a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Let them cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and they’re done to your liking.
5. Mix the Burger Sauce:
As the burgers are cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and chopped pickles (if you’re using them). Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors if you want—it should be creamy and tangy!
6. Toast the Buns:
While everything is cooking, toast the burger buns on the grill or in the skillet until they’re golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor to the burgers.
7. Assemble Your Crack Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a generous amount of your creamy sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, followed by sliced onions and any other toppings you love, like lettuce or tomato.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Cap off your burger with the top half of the bun, and voila, your Crack Burgers are ready to serve! Enjoy them hot off the grill and dig in!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that these lean meats can dry out quickly. To keep the burgers juicy, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or mixing in a bit of grated cheese before forming the patties.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture before forming the patties. You can also top your burgers with jalapeños or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, let the burgers cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat thoroughly before eating!
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the burger patties up to a day in advance. Just form them, then lay them on a tray lined with parchment paper, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This will help them hold their shape while cooking, and they’ll be ready to grill when you are!
