Crack Burgers Cheesy Ranch Bacon (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Burger Patties

01 - 680 g ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 28 g ranch seasoning mix or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning
03 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
06 - Salt to taste
07 - Black pepper to taste
08 - 60 g shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 4–6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional)

→ Toppings

11 - 4 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
12 - 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
13 - Lettuce leaves (optional)
14 - Sliced tomato (optional)
15 - Sliced red onion (optional)
16 - Sliced pickles (optional)

→ Crack Sauce (optional)

17 - 120 g mayonnaise
18 - 30 g sour cream
19 - 30 g ranch dressing
20 - 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
21 - 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
22 - 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or relish
23 - 1 tablespoon bacon bits or crumbles

# Instructions:

01 - Cook bacon slices in a skillet or in the oven until crisp. Once cooled, chop into small pieces and set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions or chives if using. Season with salt and black pepper. Handle the mixture lightly to maintain juiciness.
03 - Divide the beef mixture evenly into 4 portions. Form each into a round patty approximately 2 cm thick, making a small indent in the centre of each for even cooking.
04 - Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. Sear patties 4–5 minutes per side, adjusting for desired doneness. Place a cheese slice on each in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, cover, and allow cheese to melt.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped pickles or relish, and bacon bits. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until required.
06 - Butter the cut side of each bun and toast lightly in a skillet or on the grill until golden and slightly crisp.
07 - Generously spread crack sauce on both sides of each bun. Add a hot cheesy patty, then top with lettuce, tomato, pickles, or red onion as desired. Close the burger, press together gently, and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Shape patties in advance and chill for up to 24 hours for meal prep.
02 - Cooked patties keep refrigerated for 3–4 days; reheat gently before serving.
03 - Crack sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
04 - Swap ground beef for chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
05 - Add a fried egg or pepper jack cheese for extra flair.
06 - Crushed potato chips or crispy onions can add crunch inside the burger.