I love burgers, and I’ve tried many. But nothing beats the “Crack Burgers.” They’re inspired by the hit “Crack Chicken.” These burgers are a must-try for anyone who loves food.
They have a mix of savory, salty, and cheesy flavors. It’s a perfect combination that makes them hard to resist.
A mouthwatering scene featuring multiple delicious crack burgers stacked high on a rustic wooden table, each burger bursting with layers of juicy beef patties, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and vibrant fresh toppings, drizzled with a rich sauce. Surrounding the burgers are colorful sides of fries and pickles, with a warm, inviting atmosphere accentuated by soft, natural lighting.
Key Takeaways
- Crack Burgers are a delicious and easy-to-make recipe inspired by the viral Crack Chicken sensation.
- The recipe features a perfect 85/15 ground beef blend, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a secret seasoning blend.
- The smash burger technique results in a crispy, caramelized crust that locks in the juicy, flavorful interior.
- Customizable toppings and sauces allow you to personalize your Crack Burgers to your taste preferences.
- These burgers are perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend backyard cookouts, satisfying even the most discerning burger enthusiasts.
Understanding the Viral Crack Burger Sensation
The allure of diner burgers and thin patty burgers has led to the rise of Crack Burgers. These crispy burger patties have won over food lovers. They’ve caught the eye of social media and food influencers.
Origins of the Crack Burger Name
The name “Crack Burger” comes from “Crack Chicken,” a dish known for its creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s made with bacon and ranch flavors. This mix of tastes has been brought to the burger world, making it a hit.
What Makes These Burgers So Addictive
Crack Burgers are addictive because of their savory, salty, and indulgent flavors. They have bacon, ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese in the patty. This mix, along with crispy texture and smoky bacon, makes them irresistible.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Crack Burger |
|---|---|
| Calories | 457 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 28.3g |
| Protein | 33.5g |
| Sodium | 1,118.7mg |
| Sugar | 4.1g |
Crack Burgers gained massive popularity on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Videos and posts about them have reached many food lovers. Celebrity endorsements and features in big food publications have also boosted their fame.
A mouthwatering crack burger stacked high with a juicy, perfectly cooked patty, melted cheese oozing down the sides, crispy bacon strips, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and a dollop of special sauce, all nestled between a glossy, toasted brioche bun. Surround the burger with a rustic wooden table setting, with side dishes of golden fries and colorful dipping sauces in the background, evoking a sense of appetite and indulgence.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crack Burgers
Making the best flat top burgers or diner-style burgers begins with the right mix of ingredients. The secret to making great crack burgers is using high-quality ground beef, tasty seasonings, and delicious toppings.
The recipe starts with 1 pound of 85/15 ground beef. This gives the burgers the perfect mix of flavor and juiciness. To make them even better, add a lot of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, some Bear & Burton’s W Sauce, and a quarter cup of mayonnaise. Don’t forget to add bacon bits for a smoky flavor and extra moisture.
Seasoning is crucial. The recipe uses Heath Riles BBQ Beef Rub to add flavor without taking over. Caramelized onions and All-American Burger Sauce add a sweet and savory touch.
To make these crack burgers, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of 85/15 ground beef
- 1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of Bear & Burton’s W Sauce
- 2 teaspoons of Heath Riles BBQ Beef Rub
- Caramelized onions (optional)
- All-American Burger Sauce (optional)
- Brioche or potato buns
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make the perfect flat top burgers or diner-style burgers. They’ll be sure to satisfy your craving for the ultimate “crack” burger.
A sizzling flat top grill with perfectly seared crack burgers, rich golden-brown crust, juicy patties, melted cheese oozing over the edges, garnished with fresh lettuce and tomato slices, surrounded by a smoky kitchen ambiance and a hint of steam rising from the grill.
The Ultimate Crack Burgers Recipe
Get ready to enjoy the ultimate smashy burgers with this amazing recipe. It combines the best flavors, making these burgers a must-try. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe truly standout.
Ingredient Measurements and Proportions
For the perfect crack burgers, you’ll need:
- 1.5 lbs of 80/20 ground beef
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of crispy bacon crumbles
- 2 tbsp of ranch seasoning
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
Mix all the ingredients together gently. This helps keep the beef tender and juicy.
Forming the Perfect Patties
Split the mixture into six parts. Shape each into a 1/4 pound patty. Create a small indent in the center to prevent the patties from shrinking. Season the outside with beef seasoning for extra flavor.
Follow these steps to make the ultimate crack burgers. Your taste buds will thank you for this amazing smashy burgers experience!
Mastering the Smash Burger Technique
For the perfect crispy burger patties and thin patty burgers, mastering the smash burger technique is key. This method involves pressing the patty onto a hot cooking surface to create a crispy crust. This creates a thin, delectable crust.
By forming the patties ahead of time and pressing them onto the griddle or skillet, you can ensure a flawless sear. This locks in the juices, resulting in a mouthwatering, crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
The meat-to-fat ratio recommended for ultimate smash burgers is 80/20 or 70/30. While views are mixed on the use of pre-formed patties, Chef Aaron emphasizes the importance of not over-blending the beef for the best results. It’s advisable to leave the ground beef a little loose when forming the patties for better grilling.
When cooking smash burgers, it’s crucial to use a clean griddle or skillet to avoid any negative impact on the taste and cleanliness. Properly thawing frozen ground meat before cooking is also essential for even heat distribution and flavor. For the best results, Chef Aaron suggests seasoning the beef only after smashing, as binders like egg yolks and breadcrumbs are not recommended for smashed burgers.
To achieve the perfect smash, a burger press designed specifically for this technique is preferred over a regular spatula. These specialized tools, ranging from manual to electric options, ensure even thickness and pressure for a consistently superb crispy burger patty.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Average estimated caloric content of a typical Crack Burger | 600-700 calories per serving |
| Recommended internal temperature for medium-rare Crack Burgers | 145°F |
| Recommended internal temperature for well-done Crack Burgers | 160°F |
| Quantity of ground chuck required for Crack Burgers | 1½ lb. |
By mastering the smash burger technique, you can achieve the ultimate crispy burger patties and thin patty burgers that will leave your guests craving more. With the right tools, techniques, and attention to detail, you can create restaurant-quality crack burgers in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Cooking Temperature and Timing Guidelines
Getting the perfect crack burgers is all about mastering the cooking process. Whether you choose a griddle or a grill, keeping the right temperature and timing is key. This ensures those delicious, diner-style burgers that everyone loves.
Griddle vs. Grill: The Best Method for Crack Burgers
For the best crack burger, cook on a preheated griddle or skillet at medium-high heat, around 350-375°F. This helps sear the first side of the burger patty for about 5 minutes. It creates that signature caramelized crust. Then, flip the burger and cook for another 4 minutes before adding cheese. This ensures a perfectly melted, gooey finish.
While grilling is an option, it can be tricky for cheese-heavy burgers. The cheese might cause flare-ups or uneven cooking. So, griddle cooking is usually the best choice for these irresistible griddled burgers.
Achieving the Perfect Internal Temperature
For a medium-rare crack burger, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F. This gives you a juicy, pink center full of flavor. Adjust the cooking time based on the patty thickness and your desired doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is accurate.
Remember, the carry-over cooking after removing the burgers from heat will raise the internal temperature. So, aim for slightly lower doneness to get that perfect medium-rare texture.
Creating the Signature Crust and Texture
To make crispy burger patties like the iconic crack burger, start with a very hot cooking surface. When you add the patties, press down gently. The high heat and pressure create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
The cheese in the patty mixture is a secret to the crack burger’s texture. As it melts, it adds pockets of gooey cheese. This cheese blends perfectly with the meat’s flavor.
- Begin with freshly ground 80/20 chuck beef to achieve the ideal fat-to-lean ratio.
- Blend in a seasoning mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- Gently form the seasoned beef into round patties and chill them for at least 20 minutes before cooking.
- Preheat your griddle or cast-iron skillet to scorching hot, then add a touch of butter or oil.
- Carefully place the chilled patties onto the hot surface and press down lightly with a sturdy spatula.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until you achieve a delectable, crispy crust.
The secret to perfect crack burgers is a hot cooking surface, pressing down on the patties, and using cheese-infused beef. By following these steps, you can make burgers with the signature crust and texture everyone loves.
Best Cheese and Bacon Combinations
Creating the perfect smashed burgers or diner burgers starts with the right cheese and bacon mix. This mix can elevate your burger game. Try these tasty options to enhance your crack burger.
Choosing the Right Cheese Blend
For the best cheese, mix shredded cheddar in the patty with a melted cheese on top. Pepper jack adds heat, while Gouda brings a smoky flavor.
Bacon Preparation Tips
Crispy bacon is key for your burgers. Cook it until crispy, then chop it into small bits. Use about 1/2 cup of bacon for every 1.5 lbs of beef for the perfect balance.
| Cheese Blend | Bacon Preparation |
|---|---|
| Shredded cheddar in the pattyMelted slice of pepper jack or Gouda on top | Cook bacon until crispyCrumble or dice into small piecesUse about 1/2 cup of bacon crumbles per 1.5 lbs of beef |
By using these cheese and bacon tips, you’ll make smashed burgers and diner burgers that everyone will love. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors to find your perfect crack burger.
Essential Toppings and Sauce Recommendations
Make your crack burgers and diner-style burgers even better with the right toppings and sauces. Start with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and crunchy pickles. They add brightness and texture.
For a special burger sauce, mix ketchup, tangy barbecue sauce, creamy mayonnaise, zesty relish, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This blend of flavors creates a savory-sweet condiment that complements the beefy patty perfectly.
Caramelized onions are a great topping, adding a rich, sweet taste. Cook the onions low and slow until they’re deep, golden-brown and melt-in-your-mouth.
| Burger Sauce | Yield | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| French Herbs de Provenance Burger Sauce | 1 cup | 2 minutes |
| Diablo Burger Sauce | 1 1/4 cup | 2 minutes |
| Ragin’ Cajun Burger Sauce | 1 cup | 2 minutes |
These diverse burger sauce recipes, from French herbs to spicy Cajun flavors, let you cater to different tastes. They help create a unique dining experience for your customers.
- 94 percent lean ground turkey recommended for turkey burgers to easily stay together
- A vegan burger from Slutty Vegan, topped with caramelized red onions, vegan bacon, gooey vegan cheese, and a flavorful chipotle-lime mayonnaise.
- Shake Shack’s burger sauce is revealed to have pickles blended in for optimum flavor
- Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burger includes a ginger-, garlic-, and scallion-studded turkey patty with pickled spicy chiles and cucumbers
- Cheese-stuffed Greek burgers featuring a square of salty, creamy, herby feta
- Chicken burgers seasoned with smoked paprika and topped with coleslaw, avocado, spicy red onion, cheddar, and jalapeño
- Cheeseburger cabbage wraps utilizing cabbage as a low-carb bun replacement and filled with ground beef patty, cheddar cheese, tomato slices, red onion, pickles, and homemade burger sauce
- Air Fryer Cheeseburgers for quick cooking, ensuring juicy and cheese-loaded burgers
- Copycat Steak ‘N Shake Frisco Melt with layers of butter-smothered toasted sourdough bread, creamy dressing, caramelized onions, and a melted cheeseburger
- Quesadilla burgers marrying a chili- and jalapeño-spiced patty with crispy fried tortillas
- Falafel burgers complemented with a tzatziki-inspired sauce, while roasted chickpeas are recommended for moisture retention
- Smash Burgers known for their thin, crispy, lacy edges due to thin patties
- Cheeseburger Cups using white bread cups filled with ground beef mixture reminiscent of a cheeseburger, drizzled with condiments and topped with a pickle chip
Investing in unique burger sauces and toppings can significantly impact customer loyalty and satisfaction in the restaurant industry.
Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results
Want to make burgers as good as your favorite restaurant? You can! Just a few pro tips will help you make smash burger technique and crispy burger patties at home.
Don’t overmix the meat when making patties. This keeps them from being tough. Gently shape the meat into even sizes. Also, make a small dent in the middle of each patty for even cooking.
To add flavor, toast your buns with the patties. This creates a perfect sear and char on the buns. Let the patties rest for a few minutes before putting everything together. This makes the burger juicier and more flavorful.
Adding smoked paprika or hot sauce to the meat can elevate your burgers. The smokiness or heat enhances the flavors, making the burger irresistible.
With these tips, you’re set to make amazing burgers. Your family and friends will love them. You’ll be the go-to burger spot in the neighborhood!
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
When serving these tasty griddled burgers, choose the right sides to enhance the meal. Pick buns and sides that match the rich taste of the diner burgers.
Perfect Bun Selection and Preparation
The bun is key for a great burger. For these special burgers, use brioche or potato buns. Toast them lightly on a griddle or grill for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
Complementary Side Dishes
- Classic French fries or sweet potato fries are always a crowd-pleaser. They add a nice crunch and familiar taste to the burger.
- For a refreshing contrast, try a crisp coleslaw. It’s tangy and crunchy, making it the perfect complement to the juicy patties.
- For a healthier choice, pair the griddled burgers with a fresh green salad or grilled veggies. They balance the rich burger flavors.
Choosing the right buns and sides can make your diner burgers unforgettable. Your guests will love coming back for more.
Conclusion
The crack burgers recipe is a unique twist on classic cheeseburgers. It combines bacon, ranch, and melted cheese with a juicy beef patty. This mix creates a truly addictive dining experience.
Every bite of a crack burger is satisfying. The crispy exterior and gooey interior make it absolutely irresistible.
Follow the detailed tips and techniques in this recipe to make authentic diner-style crack burgers at home. You can grill or smash your patties. The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and perfecting your cooking techniques.
This recipe is perfect for dinner gatherings and backyard barbecues. It balances savory, tangy, and indulgent flavors. Make your home-cooked burgers as good as your favorite diner’s. Enjoy the unique taste of crack burgers that everyone will love.
FAQ
What are crack burgers?
Crack burgers are a tasty burger recipe. They mix bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese into a juicy patty. This burger is inspired by the popular Crack Chicken dish.
What makes crack burgers so addictive?
The mix of savory bacon, tangy ranch, and melted cheddar cheese makes them irresistible. The crispy texture and smoky bacon add to their appeal.
What are the key ingredients in crack burgers?
Key ingredients include 80/20 ground beef, bacon, and cheddar cheese. You also need sour cream, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brioche or potato buns, burger sauce, caramelized onions, and pickles are optional.
How do you make the perfect crack burger?
Combine 1.5 lbs of 80/20 ground beef, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, 1/4 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of bacon crumbles, and 2 tbsp of ranch seasoning. Form six patties, each 1/4 pound. Make a slight divot in the center to prevent shrinkage.
What is the smash burger technique, and how does it apply to crack burgers?
The smash burger technique involves pressing the patty onto a hot surface. This creates a thin, crispy crust. For crack burgers, form patties ahead of time and press them onto a griddle or skillet. This guarantees a flawless sear and helps lock in the juices.
What is the best way to cook crack burgers?
Cook crack burgers on a preheated griddle or skillet over medium-high heat, around 350-375°F. Sear the first side for 5 minutes, flip, and cook for 4 minutes before adding cheese. Target an internal temperature of 125-130°F for a perfect medium-rare.
What are the best cheese and bacon combinations for crack burgers?
Use shredded cheddar in the patty and a slice of melted cheese on top. Try pepper jack for heat or Gouda for smokiness. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble or dice it.
What are some recommended toppings and sauces for crack burgers?
Add fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles for crunch and freshness. Use a signature burger sauce for a tangy, sweet flavor. Caramelized onions also make a great topping.
What are some pro tips for achieving restaurant-quality crack burgers at home?
Avoid overmixing the meat and create a slight divot in the center of each patty. Toast the buns on the same cooking surface as the burgers, and allow the patties to rest for a few minutes after cooking. Add smoked paprika or hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra flavor.