Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb
- Cream cheese: 1 block (8 oz, softened and cubed)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Pepper jack cheese (shredded):1 cup
- Evaporated milk (or whole milk): 1 cup (use evaporated milk for a creamier texture)
- Sour cream: \frac{1}{2} cup
- Ranch seasoning: 1 packet (or 2-3 tbsp)
- Optional toppings (as seen in the image): Sliced jalapeños, diced pickles, and chopped green onions.
Instructions
1. Brown the Smash Burger Meat
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, pressing it down firmly into the skillet to get those crispy, browned “smash burger” edges.
- Season the meat with a pinch of salt, pepper, or a small shake of the ranch seasoning. Once fully browned and cooked through, drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
2. Melt the Cheese Base
- Turn the heat down to medium-low. In the same skillet (or a slow cooker), pour in the evaporated milk (or whole milk) and add the cubed cream cheese.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese completely melts and blends smoothly with the milk.
- Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese, a handful at a time, until completely melted and velvety smooth.
3. Season and Combine
- Stir in the sour cream and the remaining ranch seasoning packet until fully incorporated.
- Fold the cooked ground beef directly into the cheese mixture, leaving a small handful behind to use as a topping later.