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Savory Juicy Lucy Stuffed Burgers Recipe Perfect for Ultimate Melt Lovers

juicy lucy stuffed burgers - featured image

A juicy, cheese-stuffed burger with a melty core and crispy sear, perfect for comfort food lovers and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 slices crispy bacon (optional)
  • 4 slices ripe tomato
  • 4 leaves crisp lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
  • 4 brioche burger buns, toasted
  • Butter, for toasting buns (unsalted, softened)
  • Your favorite burger sauce or mayo

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese filling by mixing shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese together in a small bowl. Set aside.
  2. Place ground beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat. Gently mix until just combined.
  3. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz each). Flatten each portion into a thin patty about ¼ inch thick.
  4. Place about 1 tablespoon of cheese mixture in the center of one patty. Top with another patty and press edges tightly to seal the cheese inside. Repeat for all patties.
  5. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add a little high smoke point oil like avocado or canola oil.
  6. Cook the stuffed patties for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip carefully and cook another 4-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. While burgers cook, spread softened butter on brioche buns and toast until golden and slightly crisp.
  8. Assemble the burgers by spreading sauce on buns, layering lettuce, tomato, and bacon (if using), then placing the hot Juicy Lucy patty on top. Add the top bun and press lightly.
  9. Serve immediately with plenty of napkins.

Notes

Seal the edges of patties tightly to prevent cheese leakage. Chill patties for 15 minutes before cooking to help hold shape. Use medium-high heat for a good crust without burning. Avoid poking holes in patties while cooking. Adding a bit of butter to the pan enhances caramelization. Optional Worcestershire sauce can be added to beef for umami.

Nutrition

Keywords: Juicy Lucy, stuffed burger, cheese-stuffed burger, melt burger, comfort food, quick burger recipe