Doritos BBQ Ranch Burger

Sometimes all you want is a burger that packs a punch in both flavor and fun. This Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger with Cheddar Flood is the kind of meal I crave when barbecue vibes meet comfort food. Thanks to crushed Doritos in the mix and a flood of melted cheddar, every bite is loaded with smoky tangy and crunchy goodness.

My family still talks about the first time I made these on a weekend cookout because they disappeared faster than I could flip them. I first made these after a movie night snack became burger inspiration. Now, this mash-up is the most-requested burger at every birthday cookout.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Quality counts here Choose eighty twenty beef if you want juiciness
• BBQ sauce: Go for a smoky honey version for the best sweet tangy kick
• Ranch dressing: Makes the patties extra tender and creamy Use real ranch not low fat for full flavor
• Crushed Doritos: Nacho Cheese works best Crush just before using so they stay crisp
• Cheddar cheese: Look for freshly sliced sharp cheddar from the deli for perfect melting
• Hamburger buns: Soft potato buns are ideal to soak up all the saucy goodness
• Salt and pepper: Use flaky sea salt if you have it It gives a richer bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Patty Base:

In a large bowl combine the ground beef BBQ sauce ranch dressing and freshly crushed Doritos Use your hands to mix until just combined without overworking the beef You are looking for a sticky uniform texture with streaks of orange from the Doritos

Shape the Patties:

Divide the beef mix into four equal portions Gently shape them into patties about three quarters of an inch thick Press a slight dimple in the center of each so they cook flat and even

Cook the Burgers:

Heat your grill or skillet to medium Heat is important for caramelizing the outside without drying out the inside Place the patties down with plenty of room Cook about four to five minutes per side Only flip them once When you see juices pooling on top they are ready to flip

Melt the Cheddar:

Just before the burgers are done lay a slice of fresh cheddar cheese on each patty Lower the heat and cover the skillet This makes the cheese melt all the way down the sides flooding the patty in gooey cheddar

Toast the Buns:

Place the buns cut side down on the hot grill or a dry skillet Toast until the edges are crisp and golden brown The toasty edges balance all the rich burger flavors

Assemble and Serve:

Layer each bottom bun with a cheesy patty Add extra BBQ ranch or more crushed Doritos if you like Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately

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Cheddar is my favorite burger cheese because it hits that perfect balance of sharp and creamy. I still remember everyone’s faces the first time they saw the cheese melting over the patties like a cheddary blanket and it became a new family tradition.

Storage Tips

These burgers are best enjoyed fresh but you can keep leftover patties in the fridge for two days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water and a lid to help steam the cheese back to life. Buns can be wrapped and toasted again to refresh before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option but add a spoon of olive oil to keep them juicy. For the Doritos use Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho for a twist. Smoked gouda or Monterey Jack should you run out of cheddar both melt like a dream.

Serving Suggestions

Pile these burgers high with classic toppings like iceberg lettuce and sliced pickles for crunch. Crunchy fried onions add a pop or drizzle extra ranch over the top. Pair with sweet potato fries or a simple coleslaw for a balanced meal.

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A Little Burger History

Smash burgers hail from classic diners where pressing patties flat boosts caramelization and juiciness. Adding Doritos and BBQ sauce is pure modern American comfort inspired by snacking and grilling traditions. With ranch and cheddar in the mix this burger unites beloved flavors from backyard barbecues and late night snacks.

This burger is packed with texture and flavor bursts in every bite. Make it once and watch it become an instant family classic.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do Doritos impact burger flavor?

Crushed Doritos add a crunchy texture and a zesty, cheesy seasoning that intensifies the overall flavor profile of the burger.

→ What's the purpose of mixing ranch and BBQ sauce?

Combining ranch with BBQ sauce creates a tangy, smoky, and creamy blend that enhances the savory notes of the beef patties.

→ How can I ensure the cheddar melts perfectly?

Place a slice of freshly sliced cheddar on each patty while still cooking, then cover briefly to allow even melting over the sides.

→ Can I use a skillet instead of a grill?

Yes, a skillet works well for cooking the patties evenly and toasting the buns, helping keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

→ Are there alternatives to hamburger buns?

Brioche, pretzel buns, or lettuce wraps can be used as delicious alternatives to traditional hamburger buns depending on your preference.