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These pimento cheese-stuffed burgers are a Southern cookout favorite in my home—the beef stays juicy while melty pimento cheese oozes out from the center with every bite. Whether you are grilling for a family celebration or a quick weeknight dinner, these burgers bring festive comfort and a welcome burst of zesty flavor.
I first served these on a breezy spring weekend and the cheesy surprise instantly turned skeptical burger fans into loyal devotees at my table. Even picky eaters were asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- Sharp cheddar cheese shredded: gives rich and tangy flavor When possible use a block and shred it fresh so it melts evenly
- Cream cheese softened: ensures the pimento cheese is creamy and holds together Room temperature cream cheese blends best
- Mayonnaise: brings extra creaminess and binds the filling Try to use full-fat mayo for a more traditional Southern taste
- Jarred pimentos diced: add signature color and sweet tang Look for pimentos that are bright in color and packaged in water
- Garlic powder: boosts savory depth Choose a fresh jar for best flavor
- Smoked paprika: infuses a subtle smokiness Seek out Spanish paprika labeled smoked for authentic flair
- Cayenne pepper: adds gentle heat Use a small pinch to avoid overpowering the cheese
- Salt and black pepper: necessary to balance flavors Use kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper if you can
- Ground beef eighty twenty blend: delivers juiciness with enough fat for flavor Look for bright red beef with minimal liquid in the package
- Worcestershire sauce: provides an umami boost Opt for traditional brands and shake well before measuring
- Burger buns: soft and fresh buns hold everything together Select bakery buns or toast lightly for extra texture
- Lettuce tomato and red onion: add crunch color and freshness Look for crisp lettuce ripe tomatoes and sliced red onion rings
- Pickles: for optional acid and crunch Choose dill pickles with crisp texture
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the Pimento Cheese:
- In a medium bowl combine cheddar cheese cream cheese mayonnaise pimentos garlic powder smoked paprika cayenne salt and pepper Stir with a spatula until the mixture is smooth creamy and evenly blended Scrape down the sides to ensure no cheese or pimento bits are missed Place this bowl in the fridge while preparing the patties to keep the filling firm
- Prepare the Burger Patties:
- In a large bowl gently break apart ground beef using your fingertips Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over top and sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the beef which can make it tough Divide the mixture into eight equal sized balls and press each into a thin round patty about four inches across
- Stuff the Burgers:
- Place one generous tablespoon of pimento cheese mixture onto the center of four patties Spread the filling out slightly but keep it at least half an inch from the edge Place remaining four patties on top pressing gently to seal the cheese inside Pinch the edges firmly all the way around to prevent leaks Reshape lightly with your hands to smooth out creases and form thick round burgers
- Preheat and Oil Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium high heat for at least five minutes Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking Use a brush or fold a paper towel dipped in oil held with tongs
- Grill the Burgers:
- Arrange burgers directly on the hot grill Cook for six to seven minutes per side without pressing down so juices stay inside The burgers are ready when the beef is browned and slightly firm and you see some melted cheese beginning to bubble from tiny seams
- Toast the Buns:
- After burgers are cooked place cut sides of buns on the grill for about one minute just until golden and crisp Remove promptly to prevent burning
- Assemble and Serve:
- Layer each bun with lettuce tomato onion and a hot pimento cheese burger Top with pickles if desired Serve right away while the cheese is still melty
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You Must Know
- Stuffed burgers tend to stay juicier than regular patties
- Pimento cheese can be made in advance and stored up to three days
- Eighty twenty beef blend is ideal for both flavor and moisture
The way the cheese filling melts inside always captures attention My daughter loves to help pinch the burger edges while telling stories from her day and now making these together is our favorite cookout tradition
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat to keep the cheese filling from leaking Do not freeze assembled burgers as the cheese texture will change
Ingredient Substitutions
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option Substitute gluten free buns for anyone sensitive to gluten Mix in hot sauce or jalapenos for extra kick in the cheese filling You can try white cheddar or smoked gouda instead of sharp cheddar
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers with classic sides like coleslaw sweet potato fries or potato salad For a true Southern meal add a slice of watermelon or ice cold sweet tea on the side Top your burger with crispy bacon or a fried green tomato for a fun twist
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Cultural and Historical Context
Pimento cheese has a long standing reputation in Southern kitchens as a potluck staple and sandwich filling The combination of sharp cheddar and mellow pimentos captures the comforting bold flavors of the region Stuffing burgers with this mixture is a joyful twist that has become popular at modern barbecue gatherings across the South
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent cheese from leaking while grilling?
Carefully seal the edges of the burger patties to fully enclose the filling, then chill the assembled burgers for 15 minutes before grilling to help keep the cheese inside.
- → What type of ground beef is best for stuffed burgers?
An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal, offering juicy texture and flavor while holding together during grilling.
- → Can I use a different cheese in the filling?
Yes, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist, but sharp cheddar delivers the classic pimento cheese flavor profile.
- → Are there lighter alternatives to beef?
You may substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version—just monitor grill time to avoid drying out.
- → What toppings work best with stuffed burgers?
Crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, sliced red onion, and pickles balance the richness, while toasting the buns adds extra flavor and crunch.