Crack Burgers are juicy, flavorful bites that are hard to resist! With a perfect blend of spices, cheese, and a special sauce, they bring a smile with every bite.
Honestly, these burgers are so tasty that you’ll find yourself making them again and again. They’re great for grilling with friends, especially when you want to show off your cooking skills!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and juiciness, go for 80/20 ground beef. If you prefer a leaner option, 85/15 or 90/10 will work, but your burgers might be a bit drier. Turkey or plant-based ground meat can also be used for a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can use any cheese you like. Try Swiss, pepper jack for a kick, or even blue cheese for something different!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds great umami flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce is a good substitute. Just be mindful of salt levels since soy sauce can be saltier.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base is key for the sauce. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or even use a vegan mayo if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Sriracha: Adjust the heat to suit your taste, or use another hot sauce if you prefer. Ketchup works too if you want to keep it mild!
How Do I Make Sure My Burgers Turn Out Juicy and Flavorful?
The trick to juicy burgers is in mixing and cooking the meat just right. When mixing, be gentle! Overworking the meat can lead to tough burgers.
- Combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form patties gently without compacting them too much; they should be slightly thicker in the center.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This allows a nice crust to form.
Remember to add the cheese as soon as you flip the patties to let it melt perfectly. And don’t forget to toast the buns—this adds a nice crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy!
How to Make Crack Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
For the Spicy Mayo Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
For Toppings:
- Dill pickles, sliced (for topping)
- Optional: sliced onions or other preferred toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy for a delicious burger night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until everything is combined—but be careful not to overwork the meat, or the burgers might be tough. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each one into a patty that’s about an inch thick.
2. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until you see a nice brown crust. Flip the patties carefully, and as soon as you flip them, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking.
3. Make the Spicy Mayo Sauce:
While the burgers are cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and pickle juice. Taste your sauce and feel free to add more sriracha if you like it spicier. This sauce will add a tasty kick to your burgers!
4. Toast the Buns:
Take your hamburger buns and toast them on the grill or in a skillet until they’re golden brown. This step adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the bun from getting soggy.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put everything together! Place a cheesy burger patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Drizzle your spicy mayo sauce generously over the patty. Add dill pickle slices and any optional toppings like sliced onions if you want. Finally, place the top bun on each burger.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Crack Burgers immediately while they’re warm and gooey. Enjoy every bite of these delicious, cheesy burgers!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as turkey may cook faster. Consider adding a bit of extra moisture, like a tablespoon of olive oil, to prevent the patties from becoming dry.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, you can add more sriracha to the sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños into the beef mixture. You can also top the burgers with a spicy hot sauce of your choice for an extra kick!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’d like to skip mayonnaise, consider using Greek yogurt for a healthy alternative, or even sour cream. Both options will give you a creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor that works well with the spicy kick!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them for a minute or two or warm them in a skillet until heated through. You can also enjoy them cold in a salad for a delicious twist!
