Crack Burgers are juicy, flavorful treats that are sure to impress! Think of them as your favorite burger, but with a perfect blend of spices and ingredients that make them just irresistible!
These burgers pack such a punch that you might be tempted to eat more than one. No judgment here—everyone knows the struggle! 😂 I love to serve them with crispy fries and a cold drink for a fun meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend of ground beef for the juiciest burgers! The fat content keeps them moist. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they might need extra seasoning and care not to dry out.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for burgers, granting a creamy melt. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a smoky flavor! You can also go dairy-free with a plant-based cheese if needed.
Buns: Brioche buns are buttery and slightly sweet, perfect for balancing the flavors. If you can’t find brioche, use whole wheat or potato buns. Gluten-free options are also available in most stores if that suits your needs.
Sriracha: I love using sriracha for its heat and flavor. If you prefer less spice, try mixing in some ketchup or using a milder hot sauce. You can also adjust the amount based on your taste—start small and add more if you like!
How Do I Shape Burger Patties Without Them Puffing Up?
One common challenge when making burgers is the puffy center that can form during cooking. To prevent this, make a slight indent in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and maintain a nice flat shape.
- Use your thumb to create a shallow indentation in the middle of the patty.
- Shape your patty gently—overworking the meat can lead to tough burgers, so mix just until combined.
- Cook on a hot grill or skillet to get a great sear and finish cooking to your preferred doneness.
How to Make Crack Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
For the Spicy Mayonnaise:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sriracha (or to taste)
Optional Toppings:
- Dill pickles (sliced)
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crack Burger recipe involves about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In no time, you’ll have juicy burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—avoid overworking the meat to keep your burgers tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty; this helps prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill or in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they are nicely browned. Carefully flip the patties over.
4. Add the Cheese:
Once flipped, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Make the Spicy Mayonnaise:
While the burgers are cooking, prepare the spicy mayonnaise. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and sriracha; you can adjust the sriracha amount based on how spicy you want it!
6. Toast the Buns:
Toast your hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they turn golden brown. This step adds a lovely crunch!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
To put everything together, spread a layer of spicy mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cheeseburger patty on each bun, and add any optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, and tomato. Finally, cover it with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your delicious Crack Burgers right away! Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings and sauces. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken will work as a substitute, but they might be leaner. To keep your burgers juicy, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit more mayonnaise to the meat mixture.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even chili powder for a bit of heat. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but your burgers will still be delicious!
How to Properly Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap the burgers tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a slice of cheese for extra flavor!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the patties a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the patties, placing parchment paper between each one, for up to 3 months.
