Ranch Burgers

Make smoky ranch burgers at home with this easy and flavorful recipe. These burgers feature juicy seasoned beef patties, melted Cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and a creamy smoky ranch sauce. Perfect for grilling, weeknight dinners, or backyard BBQs, these burgers are served on soft buns with lettuce and tomato for a classic, hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Smoky Ranch Burger Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream (light or regular)
• 2 tsp Original Ranch Seasoning Mix
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Ranch Burgers

• ¾ cup diced sweet yellow onion
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lbs 85% lean ground beef
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 4 tsp Original Ranch Seasoning Mix
• ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 6 slices sharp Cheddar cheese
• 6 hamburger buns (brioche recommended)
• 6 slices tomato
• Green leaf lettuce, as needed

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Instructions

Make the Smoky Ranch Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika.
2. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Prepare the Onion

3. Heat olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat.
4. Add diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Make the Burgers

6. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, 4 tsp Ranch seasoning, black pepper, and the cooled onions. Mix until evenly combined.
7. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each into a ½-inch thick patty. Press a slight depression in the center of each patty to prevent puffing while cooking.

Cook the Burgers

8. Lightly coat both sides of the patties with nonstick cooking spray or brush your grill grates with oil.
9. Grill patties over medium heat, covered, for 2–4 minutes per side until nicely browned.
10. Flip and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C).
11. Top each patty with Cheddar cheese, cover, and cook until the cheese melts.
12. Alternatively, cook the burgers in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat following the same instructions.

Serve

13. Assemble burgers on buns with lettuce, tomato, and Smoky Ranch Burger Sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Ranch Burgers are packed with flavor from the smoky ranch sauce and perfectly seasoned beef. The melted Cheddar, sweet onions, and fresh toppings make every bite juicy and satisfying. They’re perfect for backyard BBQs, family dinners, or weekend gatherings.

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Tips

• Slightly cool the onions before mixing with beef to prevent overcooking the patties.
• Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to keep burgers from puffing up.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach the safe internal temperature of 160°F.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap Cheddar for pepper jack, Swiss, or American cheese.
• Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Buns: Try whole wheat, potato rolls, or pretzel buns for variety.
• Sauce: Mix in a little hot sauce for a spicy Ranch twist.

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FAQs

Q: Can these burgers be cooked indoors?
A: Yes, use a large skillet over medium heat and follow the same cooking times.

Q: Can I prep the patties ahead of time?
A: Patties can be shaped and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Absolutely! The Smoky Ranch Sauce can be made 1–2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.

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Serving

Serve on warm buns with fresh lettuce, sliced tomato, and a generous dollop of Smoky Ranch Burger Sauce. Pair with fries, sweet potato wedges, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

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Suggestions

• Add pickles or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
• Toast buns lightly for added texture.
• Offer extra sauce on the side for dipping or spreading.