If you’re craving a burger experience that takes your taste buds on a southern comfort joyride, then this Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patties crowned with a luscious, creamy pimento cheese spread that’s bursting with sharp cheddar and a hint of spicy cayenne. It’s a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger that’s guaranteed to become a fast favorite for backyard cookouts, casual dinners, or anytime you want to impress without fuss. Each bite delivers a harmony of rich, savory flavors and inviting textures that make this burger more than just a meal—it’s a celebration on a bun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple and familiar, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe. From the robust ground beef to the vibrant pimentos and the creamy cheese blend, everything combines to deliver layers of flavor and satisfying textures.
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend): The fat content ensures juicy, flavorful patties every time.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the meat seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a savory aromatic boost to the patties.
- 4 hamburger buns: Soft yet sturdy for holding all those delicious toppings.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns): Gives buns a golden, crispy edge and rich taste.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The backbone of the pimento cheese, delivering tangy sharpness.
- ¼ cup cream cheese (softened): Creates that irresistible creamy, smooth texture in the pimento spread.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a hint of richness to balance the flavors.
- ¼ cup diced pimentos (drained): Infuses a mild, sweet pepper flavor and gorgeous color to the cheese spread.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Gives a subtle onion punch without any crunch.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): A touch of heat that wakes up your palate.
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles: Classic fresh toppings that add crunch, juiciness, and brightness to the burger.
How to Make Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pimento Cheese Spread
Start by combining the sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix everything until the texture is smooth and creamy. This step is where the magic begins—the pimento cheese spread is the luscious, tangy star of your burger. Pop it in the fridge so it chills and melds while you tackle the patties.
Step 2: Season and Shape the Beef Patties
In a large bowl, sprinkle the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently combine the seasonings without overworking the meat for tender, juicy burgers. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty that’s slightly larger than your buns to account for shrinkage during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat until hot. Place the patties down and let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until you reach your preferred doneness. Resist the urge to press down on them—that just squeezes out the juices you worked so hard to keep inside!
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the burgers are sizzling away, spread butter on the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Toast them on a hot skillet or grill until beautifully golden brown and crisp. This step adds an irresistible crunch and prevents sogginess once you pile on the toppings.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burgers
Now comes the best part. Place each cooked patty on the bottom bun, then dollop and spread a generous helping of the chilled pimento cheese. Layer on fresh lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and crisp pickles for that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Cap each with the toasted top bun and get ready to dig into one unforgettable burger.
How to Serve Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness and balance complete these burgers perfectly. Crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch, ripe tomato slices contribute juicy sweetness, and tangy pickles provide a sharp counterpoint to the richness of the pimento cheese. Feel free to customize with onions or banana peppers for even more personality.
Side Dishes
Pair your burgers with classic sides like golden french fries or crispy sweet potato wedges. For a lighter option, a crisp coleslaw or a fresh garden salad complements the richness of the pimento cheese beautifully. If you want to keep it traditional Southern, baked beans or fried okra make amazing accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these burgers open-faced on a platter to show off that gorgeous pimento cheese spread. You might also try slider-sized versions for parties, allowing guests to enjoy a few mini bites of happiness. Adding a toothpick topped with an olive or cherry tomato can elevate your presentation for an inviting, gourmet feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the cooked patties and buns stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The pimento cheese spread stays best when refrigerated in a sealed jar or bowl. This way, everything stays fresh and ready for a quick reassembly the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag to prevent sticking. Avoid freezing the pimento cheese spread or buns for best texture and flavor, but patties keep well frozen for up to two months.
Reheating
To bring back that juicy burger goodness, gently reheat patties in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave until warm but not dried out. Toast buns briefly in a skillet or toaster oven to regain their crispness. Add fresh or chilled pimento cheese just before serving to keep its creamy consistency intact.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or a plant-based patty?
Absolutely! The Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe adapts well to turkey or plant-based patties. Just adjust the cooking time to suit the alternative protein to keep them moist and flavorful.
How long can I store the pimento cheese spread?
The pimento cheese will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. Stir it before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary in the pimento cheese?
The cayenne pepper is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a subtle kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I prepare the pimento cheese ahead of time?
Definitely! Making the pimento cheese a day ahead lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing its taste and making assembly quicker on the day you cook the burgers.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal to give the pimento cheese a bold, tangy flavor but feel free to experiment with extra sharp or even smoked cheddar for a unique spin.
Final Thoughts
If you want a burger that’s simple to prepare yet proudly packed with bold flavors and comfort-food charm, I promise this Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe will delight you. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your everyday burger game with a creamy, tangy topping that brings that unmistakable Southern flair to your plate. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and grill up some magic—you’ll be savoring each bite and counting down the days until you make it again!
Print
Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and savory burgers topped with creamy homemade pimento cheese, made from sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and diced pimentos, served with fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles on toasted hamburger buns. A classic Southern-inspired twist on traditional cheeseburgers perfect for a flavorful main course.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Pimento Cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup diced pimentos (drained)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Buns and Toppings
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Pimento Cheese: In a small bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, drained diced pimentos, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix until smooth and creamy. Cover and chill in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the burgers.
- Season and Form Patties: In a separate bowl, season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently just until combined, then divide and shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat a skillet or preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired degree of doneness. Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers cook, spread butter on the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Toast them on a skillet or grill over medium heat until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each cooked burger patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Generously spoon the chilled pimento cheese over each patty. Add fresh lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles as desired. Top with the bun’s top half and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, chill the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes before assembling the burgers.
- Try these burgers with turkey or plant-based patties as a tasty alternative.
- Use fresh, high-quality ground beef for the juiciest patties.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
