The CRACK BURGER

Ingredients

Gather everything before you start cooking.

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the Burger Mixture

   In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground beef, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, and cooked crumbled bacon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough burgers.

   ~5 min

2. 2

   Form the Patty Balls

   Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions and gently form them into loose balls. Do not press them into patties yet.

   ~2 min

3. 3

   Preheat Skillet

   Place a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to preheat for at least 5 minutes until it's very hot.

   ~5 min

4. 4

   Smash and Cook First Side

   Place one burger ball onto the hot skillet. Immediately use a firm, flat spatula to smash the ball down into a thin patty, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Hold the spatula down for 10-15 seconds to create a good sear. Cook for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.

   ~3 min

5. 5

   Flip and Add Cheese

   Carefully scrape under the patty with your spatula to loosen it, then flip. Immediately top with half of the white cheddar cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger reaches your desired doneness.

   ~2 min

6. 6

   Repeat for Second Burger

   Remove the cooked burger from the skillet and set aside. Repeat the smashing, cooking, and cheese-melting process for the second burger.

   ~5 min

7. 7

   Toast Buns (Optional)

   If desired, lightly butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns and toast them in the same skillet for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.

   ~1 min

8. 8

   Assemble and Serve

   Assemble your burgers on the toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

   ~1 min