I love making these Crack Burgers when I want a rich, juicy burger that feels indulgent but is still easy to prepare. This recipe focuses on bold, savory flavors with minimal ingredients, and every bite turns out tender, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is incredibly simple while still delivering big flavor. The beef stays juicy, the cheese melts right into the patties, and the burgers cook quickly without any complicated steps. I also like how versatile this recipe is, making it easy to customize based on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
I start by heating a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat.
I place the ground beef in a bowl and gently mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, taking care not to overmix so the burgers stay tender.
I divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties.
I cook the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they are cooked to my preferred doneness.
I remove them from the heat and let them rest briefly before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 4 to 6 burgers from this recipe, depending on patty size.
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes another 8 to 10 minutes, so the burgers are ready in roughly 20 minutes total.
Variations
I sometimes add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
I like mixing in a little black pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
I occasionally swap cheddar for pepper jack or Colby Jack to change up the flavor.
I also enjoy serving these burgers with different toppings like sautéed onions or fresh lettuce and tomato.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, being careful not to dry them out.
FAQs
Can I cook these burgers on a stovetop?
I often cook them in a skillet, and they turn out just as juicy as grilled burgers.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
I like shaping the patties up to a day in advance and keeping them refrigerated until ready to cook.
Can I freeze these burgers?
I freeze the uncooked patties, well wrapped, for up to 2 months and cook them directly from frozen.
What type of cheese works best?
I prefer cheddar, but I also enjoy using mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
How do I know when the burgers are fully cooked?
I check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are safely cooked.
Conclusion
I find these Crack Burgers to be a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can create something truly delicious. They are quick to make, full of flavor, and always a reliable choice when I want a satisfying homemade burger.
Crack Burgers are ultra-juicy, cheesy burgers made with just two main ingredients—ground beef and shredded cheddar. They’re simple to prepare, packed with bold flavor, and perfect for quick dinners or casual cookouts.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preheat a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat.
In a bowl, gently mix ground beef and shredded cheddar cheese until just combined.
Divide mixture into 4–6 equal portions and shape into patties.
Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached.
Remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving with your favorite buns and toppings.
Notes
Add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Try different cheeses like pepper jack or Colby Jack for variety.
Top with lettuce, tomato, sautéed onions, or pickles for added texture and taste.
Don’t overmix the beef to keep burgers tender.
Resting the patties after cooking helps retain juices.
