Can I use a different cut of meat?

Absolutely. The beauty of this mix is flexibility. You can use ground sirloin for a leaner burger or blend beef and pork for a softer texture. Keep in mind fat content. A 80/20 or 85/15 ratio yields the juiciest result for a classic burger feel.

Can I make these ahead and freeze them?

Yes. Form the patties, then freeze them on a tray until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. If cooking from frozen, give them a gentle thaw or extend cooking time and watch the internal temperature.

What if I want to make this in a slow cooker only?

You can adapt the flavors to a slow-cooker path. Brown the patties briefly on both sides, place them in the slow cooker with a splash of beef broth and a few sliced onions, and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. This approach will make the burgers tender and let flavors meld without a crispy crust.

How do I know when they are cooked without a thermometer?

While a thermometer is most reliable, you can check by touch and time. A medium patty will give gently and spring back slightly after about 4 to 5 minutes per side on medium heat depending on thickness. If you press lightly with a finger and it feels soft but not floppy, it is likely medium. Rest the patties and slice a small one open if you are unsure.

Can I make these vegetarian?

This recipe relies on beef and bacon flavors, but you can capture the spirit by using a seasoned plant-based ground substitute, smoky tempeh crumbles, or a thick portobello mushroom cap with a ranch-spiced butter. The key is to keep the balance of cream, tang, and texture.

Easy Crack Burgers: Your New Go-To Burger Recipe 2026

Description

A comforting burger recipe featuring ground chuck, cheddar, bacon, and ranch flavors that turns a simple dinner into a warm celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lb ground chuck
3 Tbsp sour cream
2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Hamburger buns
Lettuce
Tomato
Mustard
Mayo (for topping)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Mix until well combined, using your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix the meat.
Form the mixture into 6 hamburger patties, ensuring they are the same size and thickness. Press a small dimple into the center of each patty.
Grill the patties to your desired doneness over medium heat, using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Serve the burgers on hamburger buns topped with lettuce, tomato, mustard, and mayo.

Notes

Use low-sodium broth if preferred. Chilling patties before cooking helps them hold together. These burgers also work well in a slow cooker for a gentler approach.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 burger
Calories: 480
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg