Juicy Lucy Cheddar Burgers Recipe

Name: Juicy Lucy Cheddar Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground round; 1 Tablespoon worcestershire; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 6 slices cheddar cheese, cut into quarters; 4 burger buns; Onion slices, pickle slices, mayo, mustard and ketchup for serving

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground round
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
6 slices Cheddar cheese, cut into quarters
4 burger buns, toasted
Onion slices, pickle slices, mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup for serving

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently to incorporate all ingredients.

2. Shape the mixture into 8 equal patties.

3. Place 6 quarters of Cheddar cheese in the center of 4 of the patties.

4. Top each cheese-filled patty with a second patty, and pinch the edges together to seal the burgers tightly.

5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

6. Cook the burgers undisturbed for 4 minutes on one side, until grill marks appear and the burger easily releases from the grill.

7. Flip the burgers and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the center of the burger slightly puffs up and the other side is browned.

8. Serve the burgers on toasted buns with your desired toppings, such as onions, pickles, mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 813
Total Fat: 42g (54% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 18g (92% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 193mg (64% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1287mg (56% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 41g (15% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 9g
Protein: 64g (128% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 6mg (7% Daily Value)
Calcium: 463mg (36% Daily Value)
Iron: 8mg (42% Daily Value)
Potassium: 1002mg (21% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Juicy Lucy Cheddar Burgers

The Juicy Lucy, a legendary cheeseburger variant, was first crafted in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during the mid-20th century. Its defining featurea molten core of cheddar cheese encased within the beef pattyemerged almost by accident in local bars, where inventive cooks aimed to create a burger with a surprise center. Over time, the Juicy Lucy has become a celebrated icon of American comfort food, representing both culinary ingenuity and regional pride.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While the Juicy Lucy originated in Minneapolis, regional variations have evolved throughout the United States. In some locales, cooks use different types of cheeses, such as American, Swiss, or pepper jack, creating subtle shifts in flavor. The style of seasoning and the type of bun can also vary, with some chefs favoring brioche or pretzel buns to enhance texture and taste. Despite these differences, the core conceptcheese molten inside the pattyremains unchanged.

How It Differs From Similar Burgers

Unlike traditional cheeseburgers, where cheese is placed atop the patty, the Juicy Lucy hides the cheese within, creating a molten center that oozes with every bite. This technique not only enhances juiciness but also ensures the flavors are more concentrated and rich. Compared to stuffed burgers that might include vegetables, mushrooms, or other fillings, the Juicy Lucy focuses exclusively on cheese as its surprise element, making it uniquely indulgent.

Typical Settings and Occasions

Juicy Lucy burgers are commonly served in casual dining establishments, gourmet burger joints, and backyard cookouts. They are particularly popular during events like sports gatherings, barbecues, and local festivals, where their visually appealing, cheese-filled center becomes a conversation starter. Some restaurants even feature variations as part of tasting menus or burger challenges, celebrating its distinctive appeal.

Fun and Interesting Facts

The exact origin of the Juicy Lucy is contested, with two Minneapolis barsMatts Bar and the 5-8 Clubclaiming to have invented it, leading to an ongoing friendly rivalry.
The name Juicy Lucy is said to have been inspired by the burgers gooey center, which remains unexpectedly molten even after cooking.
Chefs sometimes freeze the cheese briefly before sealing it inside the patty to prevent leakage during cooking, a practical trick that preserves the burgers signature melt.
In 2012, the Juicy Lucy was listed among the top must-try burgers in the United States by multiple culinary publications, cementing its status as an American classic.

The Juicy Lucy Cheddar Burger is more than just a mealits a piece of culinary history, a regional treasure, and a playful twist on a beloved classic. Its combination of molten cheese, seasoned beef, and perfectly toasted buns continues to delight both locals and visitors alike, ensuring its place in burger lore for generations to come.

FAQ about Juicy Lucy Cheddar Burgers Recipe

Yes, you can form the patties with the cheese sealed inside and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Make sure they are well sealed to prevent cheese from leaking out during grilling.

Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying out the beef and to remelt the cheese inside.

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, sealed patties. Place parchment paper between them and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.

Ensure the edges of the patties are firmly sealed before cooking. Avoid pressing down on the burgers while grilling, as this can force the cheese out.

Yes, you can use other melty cheeses like American, Swiss, pepper jack, or mozzarella. Avoid hard cheeses that do not melt well.

Reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This helps retain juiciness and ensures the cheese melts again inside.

Yes, you can cook them in a heavy skillet or on a stovetop griddle. Cook over medium heat and avoid high temperatures, which may cause the outside to burn before the cheese inside melts.

Classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise work well. You can also add bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.

The burgers are ready when the beef is browned on both sides and the center feels slightly firm and puffed. For food safety, ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).