Marinated Bacon Ranch Cheeseburgers

Juicy, flavorful Marinated Bacon Ranch Cheeseburgers are the ultimate indulgence for burger lovers. Made with ground chuck marinated in Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing, topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh toppings, these burgers are perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking. Ideal for BBQs, tailgating, or weeknight dinners, these homemade burgers bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table. Whether you’re a fan of American or cheddar cheese, these customizable patties are a crowd-pleaser every time. Learn tips, variations, and serving ideas to elevate your burger game today!

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ lb. ground chuck (80% lean)
• 1 24 oz. bottle Hidden Valley® Original Ranch Dressing
• 1 ½ tablespoons canola oil
• 4 slices American cheese (cheddar works well, too)
• 8 strips cooked bacon
• 4 large burger buns
• 4 leaves iceberg lettuce
• 4-8 slices vine-ripened tomato

Instructions

Prepare the Patties:

1. Divide the ground chuck into 4 equal portions. Gently mold each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. (Avoid overhandling the meat to maintain tenderness.)
2. Press your thumb into the center of each patty to create a deep indentation, which prevents the burgers from puffing up as they cook.
3. Place the patties on a plate and drizzle them generously with Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing. Use your hands to evenly coat the patties. (It might get messy, but it’s worth it!)
4. Cover the plate with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Grilling:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and close the lid for 5 minutes.
2. Place the patties on the grill and close the lid. Cook for about 4 minutes on the first side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
3. Flip the patties using a spatula. Grill for another 4 minutes for medium-rare, or add 1-2 minutes for medium to medium-well doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and close the lid to allow the cheese to melt.
5. Remove the burgers from the grill and assemble on buns with bacon and your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.

Optional: Grill your bacon directly on the grill for added smoky flavor.

Stovetop:

1. If possible, use a cast-iron skillet. Cook the bacon first and leave the drippings in the pan for added flavor.
   • If not using bacon drippings, heat 1 ½ tablespoons canola oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the patties to the preheated skillet, ensuring they have enough space to cook without touching. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on the first side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Flip the patties and cook for another 4 minutes for medium-rare, or add 1-2 minutes for medium to medium-well doneness.
5. Add cheese during the last minute of cooking and cover the skillet with a lid or large plate to melt the cheese.
6. Toast the burger buns in the skillet with bacon drippings or butter for added flavor, if desired.
7. Assemble the burgers with bacon and desired toppings, then serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The ranch marinade takes these burgers to the next level with a tangy, creamy taste that perfectly complements the smoky bacon and melty cheese.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Easily adaptable for grilling or stovetop preparation, ensuring perfect results every time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These juicy, flavorful burgers are guaranteed to impress at any barbecue, family dinner, or casual get-together.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and condiments to make it your own.

Tips

• Handle the Meat Gently: Overworking the meat can result in tough patties, so shape them with care.
• Make an Indentation: Creating a thumbprint in the center of each patty prevents them from puffing up while cooking.
• Chill Before Cooking: Marinating the patties in ranch dressing and refrigerating them ensures maximum flavor and helps them hold their shape.
• Melt the Cheese: Cover the grill or skillet to achieve perfectly melted cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap American cheese for cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add Heat: Include sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Turkey or Veggie Burgers: Substitute ground turkey or a plant-based patty for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Different Marinades: Experiment with other dressings like blue cheese or garlic aioli for unique flavors.

FAQs

Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape and marinate the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated until ready to cook.

What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! A cast-iron skillet on the stovetop works wonderfully, especially when using bacon drippings for extra flavor.

Can I freeze the patties?
Absolutely. Shape the patties, skip the marinade, and freeze them in an airtight container with parchment paper between each patty. Thaw and marinate before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these burgers with crispy French fries, onion rings, or a fresh coleslaw.
• Serve alongside grilled corn, a classic Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Offer a variety of condiments like ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, and pickles for a personalized experience.

Suggestions

• Perfect for Cookouts: These burgers are a hit at summer barbecues and tailgating parties.
• Weeknight Dinner Idea: Quick and easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly: Simple flavors and customizable toppings make this a favorite for kids and adults alike.