Juicy, flavor-packed burgers topped with melted cheddar and a creamy, tangy crack sauce. These burgers are an indulgent treat, perfect for any cookout or casual dinner. With a balance of smoky spices, rich cheese, and a bold sauce, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Juicy – The 80/20 ground beef blend ensures a tender, flavorful patty.
Bold and Tangy Sauce – The crack sauce adds a perfect balance of creaminess and zest.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
Perfect for Gatherings – A guaranteed hit at barbecues, parties, and family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

Make the Crack Sauce – In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the Burgers – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
Form the Patties – Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing.
Cook the Burgers – Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, placing cheddar cheese on top after flipping. Cook until the cheese melts and the burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Toast the Buns – Lightly toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster.
Assemble the Burgers – Spread crack sauce on the bottom bun, add the cooked patty, and top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Place the top bun and serve.
Enjoy – Serve immediately with fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 burgers
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 540 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add extra hot sauce or mix chopped jalapeños into the crack sauce.
Different Cheese – Swap cheddar for Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese.
Lighter Option – Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version.
Brioche Buns – For an extra buttery flavor, use brioche instead of regular buns.
Grilled Onions – Caramelize onions for added sweetness and depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage – Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Crack sauce can be stored separately for up to a week.
Reheating – Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or in the microwave for 30 seconds. Toast buns before serving.
Freezing – Freeze uncooked patties between parchment paper for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

FAQs

How can I make the burgers extra juicy?

Using 80/20 ground beef and avoiding overworking the meat keeps the patties juicy. Also, making a small indentation in the center of each patty prevents shrinkage.

Can I cook these burgers on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat for the same duration as grilling.

What can I use instead of hot sauce in the crack sauce?

If you prefer a milder sauce, you can replace hot sauce with barbecue sauce or simply omit it.

Can I make the crack sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to prevent burger patties from shrinking?

Make a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly without puffing up.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative.

How do I keep the cheese from falling off while melting?

Cover the grill or skillet for the last minute of cooking to help the cheese melt and adhere to the patty.

What are the best side dishes for crack burgers?

French fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, onion rings, or a fresh salad all pair well.

Can I make mini sliders instead of full-size burgers?

Absolutely! Divide the mixture into smaller portions and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use store-bought burger patties?

Yes, but for the best flavor, season them before cooking and use the crack sauce for extra taste.

Conclusion

Crack Burgers are a must-try for any burger lover. With a flavorful patty, melted cheddar, and a bold crack sauce, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of richness and zest. Whether grilled for a summer barbecue or cooked indoors for a quick meal, these burgers are always a hit. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a truly indulgent bite!

Crack Burgers

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 burgers 1x

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Description

These Crack Burgers are the ultimate indulgence—juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patties topped with melted cheddar and a creamy, tangy crack sauce. Perfect for grilling season, backyard BBQs, or a quick and delicious dinner!

Instructions

Make the Crack Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the Burgers: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
Form the Patties: Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing.
Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, placing cheddar cheese on top after flipping. Cook until the cheese melts and the burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster.
Assemble the Burgers: Spread crack sauce on the bottom bun, add the cooked patty, and top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Place the top bun and serve.
Enjoy! Serve immediately with fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad.