Description
These juicy and flavorful burgers topped with creamy, tangy pimento cheese make for an irresistible meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Ground beef patties are seasoned and seared to perfection, then crowned with a luscious homemade pimento cheese spread and served on soft buns with optional fresh toppings and crispy bacon for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pimento Cheese Spread
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup diced pimentos (drained)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
Burgers
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juicier burgers)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for searing)
To Assemble
- 4 brioche or potato buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
- Crispy bacon (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pimento Cheese Spread: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and hot sauce if using. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the burgers.
- Season the Ground Beef: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard if using. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the seasoned meat into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round, evenly sized patty about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
- Preheat the Pan and Sear the Burgers: Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once melted and shimmering, place the patties into the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness, flipping once. Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain juiciness.
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers are cooking, slice the brioche or potato buns in half and toast them lightly in another pan or the same skillet once burgers are done, for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of the chilled pimento cheese spread on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Place the cooked burger patties on top, then add optional lettuce, tomato, pickles, and crispy bacon if desired. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- Using 80/20 ground beef ensures flavorful, juicy burgers.
- Make the pimento cheese spread ahead and keep chilled—it enhances flavors when it sits.
- For spicier spread, increase hot sauce according to your heat preference.
- Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add a subtle depth to the patties but can be omitted for simplicity.
- Let cooked burgers rest for a few minutes before assembling to retain juices.
- Optional toppings like crispy bacon and fresh vegetables add great texture and flavor contrast.
