1oz packetdry ranch seasoning mixone standard packet (about 2 tablespoons)
1cupsharp cheddar cheesefreshly shredded, divided into 4 portions
1teaspoongarlic powder
½teaspoonblack pepperfreshly ground
½teaspoonkosher salt
1tablespoonWorcestershire sauce
8stripsthick-cut bacon2 strips per burger
4brioche burger bunssplit and toasted
4leavesromaine or leaf lettuce
1largetomatosliced into 4 rounds
½mediumred onionthinly sliced
¼cupranch dressingfor drizzling, plus more for serving
Instructions
Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and set aside. Alternatively, cook in the oven at 400°F for 15-18 minutes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, dry ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix with your hands just until combined — do not overwork the meat.
Divide the seasoned beef into 8 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Flatten each portion into a thin disc roughly ¼-inch thick and 4-5 inches in diameter.
Place one disc on your work surface. Mound about ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese in the center, leaving a ½-inch border around the edge.
Place a second beef disc on top and firmly press the edges together all the way around, crimping and sealing tightly to enclose the cheese completely. Repeat to make 4 stuffed patties.
Press a shallow thumbprint into the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking. Refrigerate patties for 5-10 minutes while you preheat the grill.
Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
Place the stuffed patties on the hot grill. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes on the first side. Flip carefully with a wide spatula and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the second side, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer inserted from the side into the center of the patty.
During the last minute of cooking, toast the split brioche buns cut-side down on the grill until golden, about 1 minute.
Remove patties from the grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes.
Spread ranch dressing on the cut sides of both the top and bottom bun halves.
Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the stuffed cheddar ranch patty, 2 strips of crispy bacon, a tomato slice, and red onion rings.
Drizzle with additional ranch dressing, cap with the top bun, and serve immediately.
Notes
Make-ahead: Form stuffed patties up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate between parchment sheets. Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Storage: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water for 3-4 minutes per side. Stovetop option: Cook in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of oil for the same timing. Cover with a lid during the second half of cooking to help the cheese center melt. Cheese tip: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded — worth the extra minute of effort.