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Featured image showcasing the deliciousness of Crack Burgers.

Best Ever Crack Burgers

These burgers are designed to be incredibly addictive, combining savory umami, rich fat, and perfectly balanced textures. The recipe features a flavorful 80/20 ground beef patty, a molten cheese blend with a hint of jalapeno, and sweet caramelized onions, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 800
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 80/20 Ground Beef
  • 1/4 cup Finely Minced Onion
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 4 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 2 oz Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp Pickled Jalapenos, finely chopped optional
  • 2 Brioche Buns
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • Mayonnaise to taste
  • Sliced Tomato optional
  • 2 Yellow Onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp Butter for onions
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil for onions
  • 1 tsp Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
  • Pinch of Salt for onions
  • Pinch of Black Pepper for onions

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Cast iron skillet or grill pan
  • spatula
  • small bowl
  • large skillet
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • tongs

Method
 

  1. Gently combine ground beef, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Avoid overmixing.
  2. Divide the mixture into two equal portions. Form each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than your buns. Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty.
  3. Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, softened cream cheese, and pickled jalapenos (if using). Mix well.
  5. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  6. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 15-20 minutes.
  7. Add the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to the onions. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes more.
  8. Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast them in a skillet or on a griddle until golden brown.
  9. Preheat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  10. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with half of the cheese mixture. Cover the skillet or grill pan to allow the cheese to melt completely.
  11. Spread mayonnaise on the toasted buns.
  12. Place a patty on the bottom bun, top with caramelized onions, lettuce, and tomato (if using), and then the top bun.
  13. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality ingredients. Do not overmix the ground beef mixture. Caramelize the onions slowly over low heat for maximum sweetness. Toast the buns to prevent sogginess. The jalapenos in the cheese mixture are optional but add a nice kick. Store leftover caramelized onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also use different types of cheese in the cheese mixture, such as pepper jack or provolone.