If you’re craving something truly special and packed with bold Southern charm, this Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe is about to become your new all-time favorite. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patties topped with a luscious, creamy pimento cheese that’s bursting with sharp cheddar and just the right hint of spice. The combination is irresistible, offering a mouthwatering balance of smoky, tangy, and rich flavors that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weekend gathering or simply want to elevate your burger game, this recipe brings together classic comfort and gourmet flair effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you really need for these burgers are simple ingredients that come together in a magical way. Each item plays a crucial role—whether it’s the sharp cheddar giving the pimento cheese its signature tang, the smoked paprika adding warmth, or the juicy ground beef creating that perfect meaty base. Here’s what you want on hand:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the pimento cheese its rich and tangy body.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creamy texture and smoothness.
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened: Boosts the richness and helps bind the spread.
- ½ cup diced pimentos (drained): Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the cheese mixture.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a fragrant smoky note to both the cheese and burgers.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional): For those who want a little fiery kick.
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juicier burgers): The meaty base that grills up juicy and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the meat’s natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Joins salt to season the patties perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds more savory notes directly into the beef.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky aroma in the meat.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the umami flavor for a savory punch.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): Provides a tangy twist that works beautifully with the beef.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for searing): Helps get a golden crust on your patties.
- 4 brioche or potato buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that cradle your masterpiece perfectly.
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional): Fresh toppings that add crunch and brightness.
- Crispy bacon (optional, but highly recommended!): Because everything’s better with bacon.
How to Make Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pimento Cheese Spread
Start by combining the shredded sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and optional hot sauce in a bowl. Stir everything together until you have a creamy, slightly chunky spread that’s bursting with flavor. This spread is the star of the show, so give it a taste and adjust seasonings if needed—maybe a pinch more paprika or a dash more hot sauce for extra personality.
Step 2: Season and Mix the Ground Beef
In a large bowl, add the ground beef along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and optional Dijon mustard. Use your hands to gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat so your burgers stay tender and juicy. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty, making a small indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers to Perfection
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add the butter to melt. Place the patties on the hot surface and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Resist pressing down on them—this keeps the juices inside. Once cooked, let them rest a few minutes off the heat to redistribute those flavorful juices.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers
Toast your brioche or potato buns lightly for a bit of crunch and warmth. Spoon a generous amount of the homemade pimento cheese on the bottom half of each bun, then layer on the juicy burger patties. Finish with your choice of optional lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and, if you’re going full indulgence, crispy bacon. Place the top bun on and get ready to enjoy pure burger bliss.
How to Serve Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
If you want your Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe to really pop, fresh garnishes are your friends. Crisp lettuce leaves add a refreshing crunch and color, while juicy tomato slices bring a light acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Pickles introduce that zesty tang, cutting through the creamy pimento cheese. And, if you like a smoky, crunchy surprise, crispy bacon elevates your burger to decadent heights.
Side Dishes
Serve these burgers alongside classic sides to complete your meal. Crispy french fries or sweet potato fries pair perfectly, offering a salty crunch that complements the creamy cheese. For a lighter option, consider a crisp coleslaw or a fresh herb salad. Baked beans or grilled corn on the cob can add a hearty, flavorful touch that brings a bit of barbecue magic to your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Try serving the burgers open-faced on large plates with a dollop of pimento cheese on the side for dipping. You can also turn these into sliders using mini brioche buns for a fun party appetizer. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with a string gives a rustic, inviting feel perfect for picnics or casual get-togethers. No matter how you present them, these burgers steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely!), store the cooked patties and pimento cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the bread from getting soggy if assembled ahead of time.
Freezing
You can freeze the raw patties for up to three months—just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. The pimento cheese spread is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month with some slight texture changes upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the patties on a skillet or in the oven to preserve juiciness—avoid microwaving, which can dry them out. The pimento cheese spread is usually served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed there.
FAQs
Can I make the pimento cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pimento cheese can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar cheese is key to get the bold, tangy flavor that defines pimento cheese, but you can also experiment with a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a creamier texture.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
You can, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change. Ground turkey or chicken are leaner and milder, so seasoning is especially important to maintain that delicious, juicy burger taste.
Is the hot sauce necessary in the pimento cheese?
Nope! The hot sauce is optional and just adds a little extra kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to leave it out.
How do I prevent the burgers from drying out?
Using 80/20 ground beef helps keep them juicy, and avoid pressing them down while cooking. Also, letting patties rest a few minutes after cooking helps lock in those flavorful juices.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed burgers without that creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy layer of Southern goodness. It’s an easy yet impressive twist on a classic that’s sure to bring smiles and full bellies all around. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, fire up your stove or grill, and dive into a burger experience that’s as comforting as it is exciting!
Print
Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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
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.
