Crack Burgers are a deliciously addictive twist on the classic burger. With a flavorful combination of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, and melted cheddar cheese, these burgers are sure to become a favorite at your next cookout or family dinner. The toasted buns brushed with garlic and onion butter add an extra layer of flavor, making these burgers impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 6 hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ranch seasoning mix, and au jus gravy mix. Mix well and form into 6 patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned.
- Place the patties on a baking sheet and top each with a slice of cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush the mixture onto the tops of the hamburger buns.
- Place the buns on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for a few minutes.
- Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack to add a unique twist to your burger.
- Buns: Use brioche or pretzel buns for an upgraded burger experience.
- Toppings: Add your favorite burger toppings, like lettuce, tomato, pickles, or onion, for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or top with spicy jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the patty in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, then toast the buns in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.
10 FAQs
- Can I make Crack Burgers ahead of time? Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just follow the rest of the steps when you’re ready to enjoy them.
- Can I use a different seasoning mix instead of ranch and au jus gravy? Absolutely! You can experiment with different seasoning blends or even make your own seasoning mix using herbs and spices you prefer.
- Can I cook the burgers on the grill? Yes, you can cook the patties on the grill instead of in a skillet for an extra smoky flavor.
- Can I freeze the patties for later use? Yes, these patties freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef for a lighter version of this recipe.
- Can I make these burgers without cheese? Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese and proceed with the rest of the recipe.
- What if I don’t have a skillet? You can also cook the patties in a grill pan or use an outdoor grill.
- How can I make these burgers spicier? Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture or top the burgers with spicy sauces like sriracha or hot sauce.
- Can I make the buns ahead of time? The buns can be toasted ahead of time and stored at room temperature. Just warm them in the oven before serving.
- How do I know when the burgers are done? The burgers should be browned on both sides and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—160°F is the safe internal temperature for ground beef.
Conclusion
Crack Burgers are an irresistible combination of savory flavors, from the ranch and au jus gravy to the melted cheddar cheese. Whether for a family dinner or a party, these burgers will quickly become a favorite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.