Description
The Ultimate Crack Burgers are juicy, flavorful hamburgers seasoned with a perfect blend of spices and topped with melted cheddar cheese and a signature crack sauce. This recipe combines a homemade tangy, spicy sauce with perfectly grilled patties and toasted buns to create an irresistible burger experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping (optional)
For the Crack Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Crack Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Prepare the Burgers: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
- Form the Patties: Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing while cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your desired doneness (internal temperature should be 160°F or 71°C).
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of crack sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cooked burger patty on top, then add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any additional toppings you prefer. Finish with the top half of the bun.
- Serve: Serve the Ultimate Crack Burgers immediately with your favorite sides, such as fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Adjust the hot sauce in the crack sauce according to your heat preference.
- To keep patties juicy, avoid overmixing the meat and do not press down on patties while cooking.
- Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up on the grill.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the burgers reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Use fresh buns and lightly toast them for added texture and flavor.
- Customize toppings to your liking with additional veggies or sauces.
