Crack Burgers are juicy, flavorful sliders packed with tasty goodness. They use a mix of ground beef and spices, topped with cheesy melty goodness that makes them hard to resist!
These little burgers are perfect for parties or game nights. Trust me, once you take a bite, you might just forget about the main course! I love making a big batch and sharing with friends—everyone goes for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) is perfect for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they may be less juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: I love classic cheddar for its rich flavor, but you can switch it up withSwiss or pepper jack for a different taste. Just make sure it melts well!
Burger Buns: Brioche is my favorite for its soft texture and slight sweetness. If you can’t find brioche, feel free to use whole wheat, potato, or even a gluten-free bun.
Condiments: The mayo, ketchup, and mustard mix is fab! You can skip the mayo or replace it with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Burgers Are Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
The key to juicy burgers is in how you handle the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough patties, so gently mix and form your patties without compressing the meat too much.
- Make an indentation in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly without puffing up.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a good crust. Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook!
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; aim for 160°F for well-done burgers.
How to Make Crack Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns (preferably brioche)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Pickles
- Sliced onions
- Butter (for toasting buns)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 30 minutes to whip up these delicious Crack Burgers. You’ll have juicy, cheesy burgers ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill or Skillet:
Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This will ensure your burgers get a nice, seared crust while cooking.
2. Mixing the Beef:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Be gentle when mixing so you don’t overwork the meat; you want juicy burgers!
3. Shaping the Patties:
Divide the meat into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, making a slight indentation in the center; this helps them cook evenly and maintain their shape.
4. Cooking the Patties:
Once your grill or skillet is hot, place the patties on it. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until a lovely crust forms. Then, flip the patties and quickly place a slice of cheese on each one. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and the burgers are cooked to your liking.
5. Making the Sauce:
While the burgers are cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl to make a delicious sauce. This will add great flavor to your burgers!
6. Toasting the Buns:
In another skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Use this to toast the burger buns until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds great texture to your burger.
7. Assembling the Burgers:
Time to put it all together! Spread a generous amount of the sauce on the bottom bun, add the cheesy patty on top, and garnish with pickles and sliced onions if you like.
8. Serving the Burgers:
Top the assembly with the other half of the bun and you’re ready to serve! Enjoy your delicious Crack Burgers immediately while they’re hot!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative if preferred. Just keep in mind that leaner meats, like turkey, might require a bit more seasoning to enhance flavor. Adjust seasonings to taste!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also top your burgers with jalapeños or sriracha in the sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can shape the patties a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover them well to avoid any exposure to air. If you’re freezing them, place parchment paper between each patty and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Toast the Buns?
For perfectly toasted buns, use medium heat and keep an eye on them for even browning. If you want added flavor, try mixing a little garlic powder into the butter before toasting. You can also use a grill for a smoky touch!
