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Savory Juicy Lucy Burgers Recipe Easy Melted Cheese Center Guide

Savory Juicy Lucy Burgers - featured image

These Savory Juicy Lucy Burgers feature a molten cheese center sealed inside perfectly seasoned beef patties, delivering a juicy, cheesy surprise with every bite. Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for casual dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 burger buns, toasted (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • Butter or oil for toasting buns
  • Your favorite burger toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions
  • Condiments: mustard, ketchup, mayo, or spicy aioli

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Filling: Mix shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese in a small bowl and set aside.
  2. Season the Beef: Combine ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Mix gently with hands without overworking.
  3. Form Burger Patties: Divide meat into 8 equal portions (~2 oz each). Flatten each into thin patties. Place a heaping tablespoon of cheese mixture in the center of 4 patties. Top with remaining patties and press edges firmly to seal cheese inside with no gaps.
  4. Chill Patties (Optional): Refrigerate stuffed patties for 10-15 minutes to help cheese stay inside during cooking.
  5. Cook the Burgers: Heat skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil or butter it. Cook patties 6-7 minutes per side until crust forms and cheese melts inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Toast the Buns: While burgers cook, spread butter on buns and toast in a separate pan until golden and crispy.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Place patties on toasted buns, add desired toppings and condiments, and serve immediately.

Notes

Seal the edges of the patties firmly and chill before cooking to prevent cheese leakage. Avoid pressing down on burgers while cooking to retain juiciness. Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and moisture. Rest burgers 3-5 minutes after cooking for optimal juiciness.

Nutrition

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