Crack Burgers are juicy, mouthwatering delights that are perfect for any cookout. They are loaded with savory toppings, melty cheese, and bursting with flavor!
Honestly, I can never eat just one! Each bite is like a party in my mouth. Serve them up with fries for a meal that everyone will love—your guests will be coming back for seconds! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for something leaner, try 85/15. For a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken, but they may need extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Classic cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Swiss or pepper jack are delicious alternatives if you want a different taste or a bit of spice.
Mayonnaise: It gives the sauce a creamy base. If you’re avoiding eggs, opt for vegan mayo. For added richness, some like to use sour cream instead.
Sriracha Sauce: This adds a kick! If you prefer less heat, try a milder hot sauce or even chipotle mayo for a smoky flavor. You can simply leave it out for a milder sauce.
Brioche Buns: These are soft and slightly sweet. If you don’t have them, whole wheat or potato buns work well. Gluten-free buns are also available if needed!
How Do You Form Burger Patties Without Making Them Tough?
Getting burger patties just right is key to tasty Crack Burgers. Here’s how to shape them without losing tenderness:
- Mix the ground beef with sauces and seasonings gently. Overmixing makes patties tough!
- Form the patties slightly larger than your buns; they’ll shrink while cooking.
- Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful burgers every time!
How to Make Crack Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Pickles for garnish (optional)
- Lettuce or other desired toppings (optional)
For the Spicy Mayo Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time mixing the ingredients and shaping the patties, followed by a few minutes cooking them to juicy perfection. It’s quick and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into four equal parts and shape each portion into patties. Make them slightly larger than your brioche buns because they will shrink a bit while cooking. Set them aside as you heat up your cooking surface.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the burger patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them. This helps create a nice crust.
4. Add Cheese and Flip:
Carefully flip the patties over and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked to your liking.
5. Make the Spicy Mayo Sauce:
While the burgers are cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and sriracha sauce in a small bowl. This will be your flavorful spicy mayo sauce to spread on the buns.
6. Toast the Buns:
Toast the brioche burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster until they’re golden brown. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them nice and crispy.
7. Assemble Your Crack Burgers:
To assemble each burger, spread the spicy mayo sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cheese-topped patty on top, and add pickles and lettuce (or any other toppings you love) if you like. Finally, put the top bun on.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Crack Burgers immediately while they’re hot. They go perfectly with a side of fries or coleslaw. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that these meats tend to be drier than beef, so you may want to add a bit more moisture, like a splash of broth or an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise, to keep the patties juicy.
What Can I Substitute for Brioche Buns?
If you’re looking for a different option, you can use any type of burger bun you prefer, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even portobello mushrooms for a low-carb version. Just ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the burger and toppings!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they can also be frozen! Wrap each patty in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the spicy mayo sauce can be made ahead of time! Just mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and sriracha sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
