Ranch Burgers Recipe
Ranch Beef Patties
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- cup crushed saltine crackers
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
Directions
- Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat and lightly oil the grate.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, crushed saltine crackers, lightly beaten egg, and ranch dressing mix. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into eight equal-sized hamburger patties.
- Place the patties on the preheated grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until they are no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach at least 160F (70C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 268
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 23g
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Total Fat | 15g | 19% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 29% |
| Cholesterol | 98mg | 33% |
| Sodium | 393mg | 17% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 1% |
| Total Sugars | 1g | |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 20mg | 2% |
| Iron | 3mg | 14% |
| Potassium | 322mg | 7% |
Note: The nutritional values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your specific calorie needs.
Ranch burgers offer a delicious variation on the classic American burger. Incorporating ranch dressing mix into the patty mixture, these burgers are juicy, flavorful, and a great way to elevate your standard grill fare. Made with lean ground beef, onions, and crackers, they offer a comforting yet unique taste that is loved by many. This twist on the traditional hamburger brings together the savory flavors of ranch seasoning, creating a burger that's full of personality and perfect for summer cookouts or casual family dinners.
History of Ranch Burgers
The concept of adding ranch dressing to various dishes is deeply rooted in American cuisine, with the dressing itself originating in the 1950s. The creation of ranch dressing is credited to Steve Henson, a California cowboy who later opened the Hidden Valley Ranch in the 1950s. The dressings popularity quickly spread, and it became a household name across the United States. The use of ranch seasoning in burgers is a modern take, incorporating this beloved flavor profile into a more substantial dish. Over time, ranch burgers have gained traction as a favorite alternative to traditional burgers, offering a creamy and tangy addition to the meat.
Regional Variations and Popularity
Ranch burgers are most commonly associated with the American Southwest, where ranch dressing itself is a staple condiment. However, they have spread throughout the United States and can be found on menus in both casual diners and upscale restaurants that seek to offer a distinctive twist on the classic hamburger. The use of ranch seasoning in burgers can vary by region; in some areas, people might add additional ingredients such as jalapeos, bacon, or barbecue sauce, customizing the flavor to suit local preferences.
How Ranch Burgers Differ from Similar Dishes
Ranch burgers stand out from traditional hamburgers primarily due to the addition of ranch seasoning, which adds a tangy, creamy flavor that is not typically found in classic burgers. Unlike the typical salt, pepper, and sometimes cheese combinations, the ranch seasoning introduces a deeper flavor profile, making the burgers more moist and flavorful. Additionally, ranch burgers often include ingredients like crackers or breadcrumbs, which contribute to their unique texture, making them juicier compared to a regular beef patty.
Where Are Ranch Burgers Typically Served?
Ranch burgers are a popular choice for outdoor gatherings, backyard barbecues, and casual cookouts. Due to their rich and tangy flavor, they pair well with a variety of toppings such as cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and even crispy bacon. They're also commonly served with side dishes like French fries, potato salad, or coleslaw, making them an excellent option for family meals and informal get-togethers. Some restaurants and diners in the Midwest and Southwest regions of the U.S. also feature ranch burgers as a specialty menu item.
Interesting Facts About Ranch Burgers
1. Ranch seasoning is one of the most popular flavorings in the United States, often used not just in burgers, but in a variety of dishes, from chicken wings to dips. 2. The use of ranch seasoning in burgers has become so popular that pre-packaged ranch burger seasoning mixes are sold in many grocery stores, making it easy to replicate this flavor at home. 3. Some people prefer to use ranch dressing instead of the seasoning mix, making the burgers even more flavorful and creamy. 4. Ranch burgers are an excellent option for those who like to experiment with different condiments, as the seasoning complements a wide variety of toppings, from pickles to spicy sriracha sauce.
In conclusion, ranch burgers offer a delightful twist on the traditional hamburger, combining the creamy, tangy goodness of ranch dressing with the juicy, savory texture of a beef patty. Whether enjoyed at a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to satisfy and please any burger lover!
FAQ about Ranch Burgers Recipe
Comments
Patricia Walker
04/30/2023 07:45:16 AM
I absolutely adore delicious burgers! I recently made a batch and they were a hit with us! I made a few tweaks to the original recipe. Since it was just my partner and I, I used 1 pound of ground beef to create two generously sized burgers. I added a full packet of Ranch dressing mix and substituted raw onion with 1/2 packet of onion soup mix. Instead of cracker crumbs, I used Italian bread crumbs. The burgers turned out incredibly flavorful and juicy. I prepared them in the morning and grilled them for dinner, allowing the flavors to really seep in. I made another batch this morning and I'm eagerly anticipating dinner tonight! This recipe is definitely a keeper for us!
Nicholas Anderson
04/22/2025 06:18:06 AM
I would rate these burgers at around 4.5 stars. Initially, they had a flavor profile that was a cross between a hamburger and meatloaf. However, once placed on a hamburger bun with toppings, they tasted more like a traditional burger. The burgers were incredibly moist, which was actually a positive aspect. I halved the recipe and ended up with 6 burgers. Chopping the onion and saltines was a quick task, as I used my Vitamix blender for each. Since my egg was on the smaller side, I added a spoonful of olive oil for better binding. I purchased the ground beef from Trader Joe's; although I usually opt for their leanest option (96/4), the 90/10 blend worked well and possibly contributed to the burgers not being too dry. I lined a baking sheet with foil, sprayed it with PAM, and broiled the burgers in the middle of the oven for about 15 minutes. To enhance the flavor, I brushed the tops with chili sauce once they were done cooking. I served them on toasted whole wheat seeded hamburger buns, which I typically reserve for turkey burgers - they paired nicely. While I was low on veggies, we used a mix of condiments such as mayo, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and relish to elevate the flavors. I was pleased that I could stretch a 1 lb pack of meat from making 4 burgers to 6 with this recipe.
Ashley Moore
12/23/2023 08:52:43 PM
I didn't have powdered ranch dressing available, so I used Italian seasoning instead. I also swapped the crackers for seasoned Panko breadcrumbs. I will definitely be making this recipe again! 😊
Sarah Hernandez
03/25/2023 12:09:46 AM
Review rewritten: This dish definitely resembles meatloaf, and personally, I find that quite appealing. Lately, the quality of store-bought hamburger meat seems to have lost its flavor, prompting the need to enhance it with additional seasonings. When I prepared this recipe, I made a few modifications. I substituted 1/4 cup of dry old-fashioned oatmeal for saltine crackers, as it's more to my liking. To elevate the taste without increasing the salt content, I opted to use only half a packet of ranch dressing mix. To this, I added 1/2 teaspoon of salt-free dry curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt-free Mrs. Dash seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of salt-free onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of ground celery seed, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Additionally, I included a heaping teaspoon of finely minced garlic from those small jars found in stores, renowned for their use in Chinese restaurants. The resulting flavor was outstanding! Ensure thorough mixing of the finely chopped onion, oats, and hamburger to evenly distribute the seasonings. An essential tip: exercise caution when flipping the patties to prevent them from falling apart. Cook them slowly on one side until fully done, then flip them just once to cook the other side through.
Jeffrey Parker
11/01/2022 08:16:14 PM
My partner and I decided to give this recipe a try today, and we were pleasantly surprised by how delicious it turned out. Taking advice from other reviewers, I added 2 envelopes of Ranch dressing seasoning, included the egg and onion, but reduced the amount of crackers to just over 1/4 cup. I cooked it on a grill pan, and the result was a flavorful and moist dish. I will definitely be making this again in the future!
Lisa Martinez
08/17/2022 12:24:04 PM
Following the recipe exactly, I found these to be quite enjoyable. They turned out a bit too moist, requiring a 30-minute chill in the fridge to firm up and hold their shape. The flavor was excellent, especially if you're a fan of onions, as they really shine through. A refreshing departure from traditional burgers. Appreciate it!
Alexander Parker
04/21/2024 06:28:51 PM
I have prepared these burgers a few times now and they result in a flavorful and juicy patty. However, I believe a couple of minor adjustments could elevate this recipe to a five-star rating. For those who think the flavor is too much like meatloaf, I tried using Worcestershire sauce instead of the egg the second time, and it turned out wonderfully. Additionally, I included finely chopped bacon and garlic in the patties for an extra burst of flavor. I will definitely be making these again, with a few tweaks to the original recipe, the next time my family is craving burgers.
Catherine Phillips
12/16/2024 07:21:57 AM
Decent job on these, even though I may have overcooked them a bit. They still turned out pretty good.
Rebecca Campbell
10/04/2023 10:19:29 PM
I absolutely adore these burgers. They pair well with any toppings of your choice. Personally, I think adding avocado would be a wonderful choice.
Eric Carter
03/11/2023 01:34:37 PM
I personally enjoy the Hidden Valley Ranch recipe found on the back of the 4-pack box more. Once a burger contains an egg, it no longer remains a burger but transitions into a meatloaf.
Betty King
11/15/2022 02:12:29 AM
I cooked this dish tonight without the egg and crackers since I didn't have any crackers at home. It turned out really tasty, and I will definitely be making it again following the same recipe.
Lisa Collins
08/14/2023 03:27:16 AM
Great! This is the best ranch burger I have ever made.
Jacob Phillips
02/12/2024 01:23:08 PM
Updating my review: To achieve the perfect thickness and prevent your burger from falling apart, I used a 1/2 cup measuring scoop with a small heap of meat. I patted it down to about 1/2 inch thickness, creating burgers that fit perfectly on regular buns.
Michael Lewis
05/15/2025 03:50:39 PM
I purchased the chipotle ranch dressing and it provides spice enthusiasts with the extra kick that I believe this recipe was missing! Absolutely delicious and will definitely be a staple in my kitchen.
Amanda Young
11/28/2023 05:19:32 PM
My daughter prepared these delicious burgers using a generous amount of Emeril's Bam!burger seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, a hint of onion powder, and garlic powder. Topped with green olives on the bun, they were absolutely fantastic!