Hey y'all! Ready to take your burger game to a whole new level? These Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños are the ultimate flavor bomb—think juicy beef patties, melty cheese, and just the right kick of heat, all tucked in a soft bun. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, serving up game day snacks, or just want a crave-worthy dinner, this burger is always a hit. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños Recipe
- Layered Flavor: Creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños make each bite unforgettable.
- Super Juicy: The secret spice blend keeps the patties moist and tender.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice and toppings for everyone’s taste.
- Perfect for Parties: Always a crowd favorite at gatherings and cookouts.
Ingredients for Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (or fresh sliced for more heat)
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, crispy bacon, onion rings
How to Make Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Make the Cheese Filling
- In a small bowl, blend together the shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and chopped jalapeños until creamy and well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Burger Patties
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t overmix—just until incorporated.
- Divide the beef into 4 equal portions. Flatten each into a ½-inch thick patty.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Jalapeños Filling
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto the center of two patties.
- Place the remaining patties on top, sealing the edges tightly to form a stuffed burger. Press to ensure no cheese escapes during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high (about 400°F/200°C).
- Cook burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, flipping once, until the outside is caramelized and the internal temp hits 160°F (use a meat thermometer for best results).
- Rest the burgers for 2 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Layer buns with lettuce, tomato, and crispy bacon if desired. Add the stuffed patty and any other toppings you like. Enjoy!

Notes for the Best Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- For extra juicy burgers, avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook (source).
- Swap pickled jalapeños for fresh slices if you love more heat.
- Letting the burgers rest keeps the cheese filling from spilling out when you bite in.
Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños: Variations
- Low Carb: Serve the burgers in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Turkey Crack Burgers: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Double Cheese: Add a slice of provolone or pepper jack on top during the last minute of cooking.
Required Equipment for Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- Mixing bowls
- Grill or heavy skillet
- Spatula
- Instant-read meat thermometer
Storage Instructions for Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- Store leftover cooked burgers (without buns) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results or microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Burgers can be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer bag.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- Pair with crispy oven fries, garlic aioli, or a bright side salad.
- For drinks, try a cold lager or a tangy lemonade to balance the spice.
- Serve with classic coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob for the full cookout experience.
Pro Tips for the Best Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños
- Use 80/20 ground beef for maximum juiciness. Learn about meat blends at Cook's Illustrated.
- Chill your formed patties for 15 minutes before grilling to help them hold their shape.
- Use a light touch when mixing and forming patties to keep them tender (Simply Recipes).
Crack Burgers with Cheese and Jalapeños: FAQ
- Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the stuffed patties, cover, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before grilling. - What cheese works best for crack burgers?
Sharp cheddar and cream cheese create the perfect creamy, melty filling, but feel free to mix in pepper jack or Monterey Jack. - How spicy are these burgers?
The heat level depends on your jalapeños; use pickled for milder flavor or fresh for more spice. Adjust the amount to taste.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- ½ cup pickled jalapeño slices
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
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1In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix gently and form into 4 equal patties.
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2In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, and pickled jalapeños until well combined.
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3Make a small indentation in the center of each patty and fill with a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture. Seal the patties around the filling.
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4Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
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5Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover to melt the cheese.
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6Butter the hamburger buns and toast them until golden. Assemble the burgers and serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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