Crispy Ranch-Style Beef Patties
Dive into the delightful world of Crispy Ranch-Style Beef Patties, a tasty twist on traditional hamburgers that's sure to please your palate. Inspired by the classic chicken-fried steak method, these juicy ground beef patties are seasoned to perfection with chili powder and fresh parsley, adding a burst of flavor in every bite. Coated in a crunchy exterior of crispy saltine crackers, they offer a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside classic sides. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe brings a touch of comfort food with an innovative flair, making it a must-try for fans of hearty meat dishes.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef
1 lb (90% lean)
Chopped Fresh Parsley
2 teaspoons (fresh)
Chili Powder
1 tablespoon
Salt
1 teaspoon
Egg
1 (beaten)
Crushed Saltine Crackers
2 cups (divided)
Oil
1/2 cup (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped fresh parsley, chili powder, salt, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2
Gradually fold in 1 cup of crushed saltine crackers to the meat mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
3
Shape the mixture into six even patties and coat each patty thoroughly with the remaining crushed saltine crackers. Place the coated patties on a plate.
4
Cover the plate with plastic wrap and refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.
5
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering.
6
Carefully add the chilled patties to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each patty for about 7 minutes on one side.
7
Flip the patties and cook for an additional 7 minutes, or until the centers are cooked through and the outsides are golden brown and crispy.
8
Remove the patties from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Ranch-Style Beef Patties?
Crispy Ranch-Style Beef Patties are flavorful ground beef patties seasoned with chili powder and parsley, coated in crushed saltine crackers and fried until golden and crunchy.
What inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the classic chicken-fried steak method, applying that crispy breaded technique to ground beef patties.
What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 1 lb of 90% lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and structure.
How many patties does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield six even-sized beef patties.
What seasonings are used in the meat mixture?
The patties are seasoned with fresh chopped parsley, chili powder, and salt.
How do the patties get their crispy texture?
The crispiness comes from a double-layer of crushed saltine crackers, both inside the meat mixture and as an outer coating.
Is an egg required for this recipe?
Yes, one beaten egg is used as a binder to help the ingredients and the cracker coating stay together.
Why do the patties need to be refrigerated before cooking?
Refrigerating the patties for at least 30 minutes helps the saltine cracker coating adhere better to the meat during the frying process.
What is the best way to crush the saltine crackers?
You can crush them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and using a rolling pin, or by using a food processor until they reach a fine consistency.
How much oil is needed for frying?
You will need approximately 1/2 cup of oil to properly fry the patties in a large skillet.
How long should each side of the patty be cooked?
Each patty should be fried for about 7 minutes per side over medium heat.
How do I know when the patties are finished cooking?
The patties are done when the centers are cooked through and the exterior coating is golden brown and crispy.
Should I drain the patties after frying?
Yes, it is recommended to remove the patties from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
While fresh parsley is recommended for flavor, you can substitute with dried parsley using about one-third of the amount.
What temperature should the oil be?
The oil should be heated over medium heat until it is shimmering before adding the patties.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
While frying provides the signature crispy texture, you could bake them, though they may not be as crunchy as the fried version.
What sides go well with Crispy Ranch-Style Beef Patties?
They pair perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is a family-friendly comfort food dish that is easy to prepare and generally well-liked by children.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart in the pan?
Ensuring the patties are chilled for 30 minutes and using the egg as a binder are the keys to keeping them intact.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted, though the flavor profile and moisture content will vary slightly.
How fine should the saltine cracker crumbs be?
The crumbs should be crushed enough to coat the meat evenly, but a few small pieces can add extra texture.
Can I add other spices to the mix?
Certainly! Garlic powder or onion powder would be excellent additions if you want to further enhance the ranch-style profile.
How should I store leftover patties?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat these?
To maintain the crispiness, reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave.
Can these patties be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties with parchment paper between them for up to 3 months.
Are these patties spicy?
The chili powder adds a mild warmth and depth of flavor, but they are generally not considered 'hot' or very spicy.
Do I need to cover the skillet while frying?
No, leave the skillet uncovered to ensure the cracker coating becomes crispy rather than soggy from steam.
What dipping sauces are recommended?
Ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a simple gravy are great options for dipping.
How long does total preparation take?
Preparation and cooking take about 30 minutes, plus the 30-minute chilling time.
Is it okay to overcrowd the skillet?
No, you should avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the oil temperature stays consistent and the patties crisp up properly.