2lbs80/20 ground beefdivided into 8 thin discs, 2 per burger
1oz packetdry ranch seasoning mixsuch as Hidden Valley Original
1cupsharp cheddar cheeseshredded, for stuffing inside patties
1tspgarlic powder
1tsponion powder
1tspkosher salt
1/2tspblack pepperfreshly ground
1tspWorcestershire sauce
For the Toppings & Assembly
8stripsthick-cut baconcooked until crispy
4slicessharp cheddar cheesefor topping, optional extra melt
4brioche burger bunssplit and toasted on the grill
1/2cupcreamy ranch dressingstore-bought or homemade
4leavesromaine or butter lettuce
1largetomatosliced into 4 thick rounds
1/2red onionthinly sliced
1tbspbutterfor toasting buns
Instructions
Prep the Bacon
Cook thick-cut bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until deeply crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Alternatively, bake on a foil-lined sheet pan at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until crispy.
Form the Stuffed Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, dry ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands just until combined — do not overwork the meat.
Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each into a thin disc roughly 4-5 inches in diameter.
Place one beef disc on a clean surface. Mound 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar in the center, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edge. Top with a second beef disc and firmly pinch and crimp the edges all the way around to completely seal the cheese inside. Repeat with remaining portions to form 4 stuffed patties.
Press a shallow thumbprint dimple into the center of each formed patty. Place patties on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before grilling.
Grill the Burgers
Preheat your grill to high heat, around 450-500°F. Clean the grates and oil them lightly using tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.
Place stuffed patties on the hot grill. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a deep crust forms on the bottom and juices start to pool on the surface.
Flip patties once and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium doneness. If adding a slice of cheddar on top, place it in the last 1-2 minutes of cooking and close the grill lid briefly to melt.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness — 160°F internal temperature for fully cooked ground beef. Remove from grill and let rest on a clean plate for 2-3 minutes.
Toast the Buns & Assemble
While burgers rest, brush cut sides of brioche buns with butter and place cut-side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and lightly toasted.
Spread ranch dressing generously on both the top and bottom bun. Layer the bottom bun with lettuce, then the stuffed cheddar patty, 2 strips of crispy bacon, a tomato slice, and a few rings of red onion.
Drizzle an extra splash of ranch over the toppings, cap with the top bun, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
Make-ahead tip: Form patties up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling. Storage: Cooked patties keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to retain moisture. Grill alternative: These patties cook beautifully on a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat indoors — use the same timing as the grill instructions.