Get ready to revolutionize your burger game with the ultimate cheese lover's dream: Chef John's Juicy Lucy Burger! Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled patty and experiencing an explosive molten cheese center that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This isn't just another burger recipe - it's a culinary adventure that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience that will have your friends and family begging for more.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and onion for toppings
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Divide the ground beef mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into thin, round patties approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut each slice of American cheese into quarters. Place 4 quarter-sized cheese pieces in the center of 4 of the patties, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully place the remaining 4 patties on top of the cheese-covered patties. Pinch and seal the edges completely to create 4 stuffed burger patties, ensuring no cheese can leak out during cooking.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, lightly oil the surface.
- Cook the burgers for 4-5 minutes on the first side, avoiding pressing down on the patties to maintain juiciness.
- Carefully flip the burgers and cook an additional 4-5 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- During the last minute of cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a separate skillet.
- Remove burgers from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Assemble burgers by placing each patty on a toasted bun. Top with lettuce, tomato, and onion as desired.
- Serve immediately, warning guests that the cheese inside will be extremely hot.
Tips
- Use ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20 blend) to ensure juiciness and flavor
- When sealing the cheese inside the patties, make sure edges are completely closed to prevent cheese leakage
- Avoid pressing down on burgers while cooking to maintain their juicy interior
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the burger reaches the safe internal temperature of 160°F
- Let burgers rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute
- Warn guests about the extremely hot molten cheese center to prevent burns
- For extra flavor, consider using different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or pepper jack
- Toast the buns lightly to add a delicious crunch to your burger
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 524kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 100mg
