Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger with Cheddar Flood

Introduction

When it comes to burgers, bigger and bolder flavors always steal the spotlight. This Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger with Cheddar Flood is not just a sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed experience. With smoky BBQ ranch sauce, crunchy Doritos, juicy smashed beef patties, and an indulgent cheddar cheese pour, this recipe delivers everything you love about comfort food in one bite. Perfect for game nights, cookouts, or when you just want a showstopping dinner, this burger is guaranteed to impress.

My recipe story

This recipe was born from my love for combining bold snack flavors with classic dishes. I’ve always been the type of cook who keeps a stash of Doritos in the pantry, and one night I thought—what if I used them not just as a side, but inside the burger itself? The smoky BBQ ranch profile gave me instant inspiration. After a few kitchen experiments, I paired it with smashed patties for texture, a creamy cheddar flood for richness, and crunchy Doritos for contrast. The result? A burger that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredient breakdown

The foundation of this burger is good-quality ground beef. Choose 80/20 ground chuck for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Smash burgers thrive on that rich beef fat, which creates a crispy crust when seared on a hot griddle. Season simply with salt and pepper—because the toppings will bring plenty of boldness.

The cheddar flood is what makes this burger unforgettable. By melting cheddar with a little milk and butter, you create a smooth, pourable sauce that cascades over the patties. This is indulgence at its finest, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. The sauce not only adds creaminess but also ties together the crunch of the Doritos with the tangy BBQ ranch sauce.

Speaking of sauces, BBQ ranch is the hero flavor here. A quick mix of ranch dressing and smoky barbecue sauce gives you a tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet condiment that elevates every bite. Top that with crushed Doritos—preferably BBQ Ranch or Nacho Cheese—for extra crunch and flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large cast iron skillet or griddle
• Metal spatula (for smashing patties)
• Medium saucepan (for cheddar flood)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine equal parts ranch dressing and barbecue sauce. Stir until smooth, taste, and adjust for sweetness or tang. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use so the flavors meld.
2. Make the cheddar flood: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over low heat. Add 1 tablespoon flour and whisk until a paste forms. Slowly whisk in 1 cup whole milk, letting it thicken slightly. Stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and pourable. Keep warm over low heat.
3. Shape and smash patties: Divide 1 lb of ground beef into 4 loose balls. Preheat your cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Place the beef balls on the surface and smash them flat using a spatula or burger press. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the patties: Let the patties sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crisp. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and keep warm.
5. Toast the buns: Lightly butter brioche buns and toast them cut-side down on the hot skillet until golden. This prevents sogginess and adds flavor.
6. Assemble the burgers: Spread BBQ ranch sauce on both bun halves. Place a smash patty on the bottom bun, drizzle with cheddar flood, and sprinkle with crushed Doritos. Add another patty if you want it stacked. Top with lettuce, tomato, or onion if desired, then crown with the bun.

Variations & substitutions

If BBQ ranch isn’t your favorite, try swapping it with chipotle mayo for smoky heat or a blue cheese dressing for tangy richness. You can also switch the Doritos flavor to Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or even Flamin’ Hot for a fiery twist. For a lighter version, replace the cheddar flood with a simple cheese slice melt, or use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner patty. Vegetarians can swap the beef for a hearty plant-based burger patty, which pairs surprisingly well with the Doritos crunch.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Smash burgers are best eaten fresh, but you can make elements ahead. The BBQ ranch sauce can be prepared 2–3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The cheddar flood can be made a day before—just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk. Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet. While you can freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months, the texture is always better fresh. Doritos should always be added just before serving to keep them crisp.

Serving ideas & pairings

This burger is already indulgent, so keep the sides simple. Classic fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings make perfect companions. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp coleslaw or a side salad to cut through the richness. When it comes to drinks, a cold beer or a fizzy soda complements the smoky and cheesy flavors perfectly. If you want a fun twist, serve with a milkshake—because nothing pairs with a burger like something sweet and creamy.

FAQ

Can I use pre-made cheese sauce instead of making cheddar flood?
Yes, you can use store-bought cheese sauce, but making your own gives a fresher, creamier flavor.

What kind of Doritos work best?
BBQ Ranch is ideal, but Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch also pair beautifully with this burger.

Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?
Yes, any heavy-bottomed skillet or flat-top griddle will work, but cast iron creates the best crust.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Just adjust the sauce and Doritos flavor to suit their taste preferences.

How do I prevent my burger from getting soggy?
Toast the buns, spread sauce sparingly, and add Doritos just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Final thoughts

This Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger with Cheddar Flood is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, textures, and creativity in the kitchen. From the juicy patties to the cascading cheese and the playful crunch of Doritos, every bite is indulgent and unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or treating yourself to a gourmet-style burger night at home, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature burger—the one your friends and family can’t stop asking for.

Doritos BBQ Ranch Smash Burger with Cheddar Flood

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 burgers

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Description

Juicy smash patties topped with BBQ sauce, ranch, crunchy Doritos, and a molten cheddar flood make this burger bold and unforgettable. Perfect for game day or weekend indulgence.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 potato or brioche burger buns
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/3 cup ranch dressing
• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup Doritos, lightly crushed
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Grate cheddar cheese and melt in a small saucepan with heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Keep warm.

2. Butter buns and sprinkle with garlic powder, then toast cut side down in a hot skillet until golden.

3. Roll ground beef into 4 loose balls. Smash onto a hot cast iron skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until crispy edges form and centers are juicy.

4. Spread ranch on bottom buns and BBQ sauce on top buns.

5. Layer patties onto bottom buns, sprinkle with crushed Doritos, and place top buns.

6. Pour warm cheddar sauce over assembled burgers and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra spice, use spicy Doritos and add jalapeños. Keep cheddar sauce warm on low heat until serving. Best enjoyed fresh, but patties can be cooked ahead and reheated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American