Indulge in the ultimate in comfort food luxury with this Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf, a delectable fusion of gourmet burger and decadent grilled cheese. Crafted with precision and bursting with flavors, this dish is a true celebration of sensory-rich, elegant indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf
This irresistible masterpiece combines the best of both worlds – the juicy, satisfying heartiness of a smashburger and the luscious, comforting embrace of a grilled cheese sandwich. With its perfectly cooked beef, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, this dish is a true flavor symphony that will leave you craving more. Prepare to be enveloped in a warm, cozy hug of culinary bliss with every bite.
Ingredients
This refined comfort food delight is made with a carefully curated selection of gourmet ingredients. From the high-quality ground beef and artisanal cheese to the fresh herbs and tangy ranch dressing, every element has been hand-picked to deliver a harmonious and elegant flavor profile.
- 1 lb – High-quality ground beef
- 1 tsp – Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp – Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups – Shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices – Crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup – Creamy ranch dressing
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese: Swap the cheddar for Swiss or a blend of cheeses for a refined swap that keeps the balance.
- Ranch Dressing: Substitute with a homemade herb-infused crème fraîche for a more delicate, refined touch.
How to Make Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your senses and satisfy your cravings for comforting, indulgent flavors.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Begin by preparing your mise en place. Carefully measure and assemble all the necessary ingredients, ensuring that everything is within reach for a seamless cooking experience. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and gently form them into thin patties. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat and, working in batches if necessary, smash the patties down to create a thin, crispy crust. Cook the patties until they are beautifully seared on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Arrange the cooked smashburger patties in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Top each patty with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese, and finish with a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, approximately 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure the dish doesn’t overcook and become dry.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Flavor Boosters: For an even more indulgent experience, consider adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the burger patties, or experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect flavor combination.
- Herb Infusion: Elevate the dish by incorporating fresh herbs, such as chopped chives or parsley, to add a delicate, refined touch.
- Protein Swaps: If you prefer a lighter approach, you can opt for turkey or chicken instead of beef, or even create a vegetarian version using plant-based protein alternatives.
- Customization: The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: A crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
Storage: Store the cooled dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Reheat the dish in the oven or a toaster oven until the cheese is melted and the dish is warmed through.
Make-Ahead: This recipe can be easily prepared in advance, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Nutrition Information
This Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf is a decadent and indulgent dish, but it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. The combination of high-quality protein from the beef, the healthy fats from the cheese and bacon, and the flavorful seasonings make this a satisfying and nourishing meal.
- Serving Size: 1 smashburger patty
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbs: 5 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Sodium: 860 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, you can experiment with a variety of options, such as Swiss or a blend of cheeses, to find your perfect flavor combination.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be easily prepared in advance. You can assemble the smashburger patties and cheese mixture, then simply bake it when ready to serve. Alternatively, you can fully prepare the dish and reheat it in the oven when needed.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! This Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf is a fantastic option for entertaining or feeding a large group. Simply scale up the recipe as needed, and adjust the baking time accordingly to accommodate the increased portion.
Can I make this recipe without the bacon?
Certainly! If you prefer a meatless option or want to cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily omit the bacon from this recipe. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying without it.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish a bit healthier, you can consider using leaner ground beef, opt for low-fat or reduced-fat cheese, and experiment with alternative toppings, such as sautéed vegetables or a lighter ranch dressing.
Try These Next
- Maple Bacon Ranch Smashburger Meatloaf
- Cheddar Ranch Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf
- Loaded Bacon Cheesy Ranch Breadsticks My Favorite Recipe
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Cheesy Bacon Ranch Smashburger Loaf, a refined twist on a classic comfort food. This elegant dish combines juicy beef, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch, all baked to perfection in a loaf form.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños to the mixture. Serve with additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches, Burgers & Melts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg