Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crack Burgers are deliciously simple and packed with flavor. The 80/20 ground beef blend keeps the patties juicy, while the garlic and onion powder elevate the taste. Topped with melted cheese and your favorite burger fixings, these burgers are the ultimate indulgence. With just a few ingredients, you can create a burger that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
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For the Burger Patties:
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1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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For the Burger Assembly:
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4 slices of cheese (American, cheddar, or your favorite)
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4 burger buns
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Lettuce leaves
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Tomato slices
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Pickles
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Ketchup
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Mustard
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Mayonnaise
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Optional Toppings:
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Crispy onions or another savory crunch
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Jalapeños
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Avocado
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(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture
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In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
2. Form Patties
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Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty slightly larger than the burger buns, as they will shrink a little while cooking.
3. Heat the Grill or Skillet
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Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, you can add a little oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Patties
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Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side. Do not press down on the patties; let them cook undisturbed to retain their juiciness.
5. Add Cheese
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Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each one. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Toast the Buns
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While the patties are finishing up, split the buns and toast them on the grill or in a skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
7. Assemble the Burgers
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On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place a lettuce leaf followed by the beef patty with melted cheese. Top with tomato slices, pickles, and your choice of sauces (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise).
8. Finish and Serve
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Add the top half of the bun and serve immediately while hot! Enjoy these delicious Crack Burgers with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings
Variations
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Spicy Crack Burgers: Add jalapeños to your burger for a spicy kick. You can also mix some hot sauce into the beef mixture before forming the patties for an extra burst of heat.
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Veggie Crack Burger: For a lighter option, skip the beef and try a veggie burger patty instead. Toppings like avocado, lettuce, and tomato still make it just as delicious!
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. If reheating in a skillet, consider adding a slice of cheese on top and covering it to melt the cheese again.
FAQs
1. Can I use leaner beef for the patties?
Yes, you can use leaner beef, but the patties may be less juicy. The 80/20 blend ensures that the burgers stay tender and flavorful.
2. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This can help the flavors meld and make cooking easier.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack would all be great options, depending on your taste preferences.
4. How can I prevent my burgers from shrinking too much while cooking?
To prevent shrinkage, avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook. Also, make sure they are slightly larger than the buns before cooking, as they will shrink as they cook.
5. Can I make these burgers without the bun?
Absolutely! You can serve the patties on lettuce wraps or with a gluten-free bun for a lower-carb option.
6. How do I know when the burgers are done?
The burgers are done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, or cut into one to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
7. Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
8. Can I add other vegetables to the patties?
You can add finely chopped vegetables, such as onions or mushrooms, to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
9. How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
To keep the buns from getting soggy, make sure to toast them until they are crispy. You can also spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or mustard on the inside of the buns to act as a barrier against the moisture from the burger.
10. Can I grill these burgers instead of using a skillet?
Yes, grilling these burgers adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just ensure the grill is preheated and cook the burgers over medium heat for the best results.
Conclusion
These Crack Burgers are a flavorful, juicy, and customizable burger that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be able to create an amazing burger with incredible flavor in just 35 minutes. Serve it up with your favorite toppings and enjoy a mouthwatering, irresistible meal!
