Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, perfectly seasoned patty crowned with a generous scoop of creamy, tangy pimento cheese, nestled between soft, toasted brioche buns with all the fixings—this is what makes Burgers with Pimento Cheese truly unforgettable. This Southern-inspired burger brings together the luscious richness of sharp cheddar and pimentos with classic burger toppings, creating an irresistible fusion of textures and flavors that will steal the show at any cookout or cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Burgers with Pimento Cheese lies in their simple ingredients, each playing a starring role. Ground beef brings the savory richness, while bright, crisp toppings and that signature pimento cheese layer transform this burger into something special. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love every single element:
- Ground beef (80/20): This perfect blend guarantees juicy, flavorful patties with just the right balance of fat.
- Salt: The go-to seasoning that enhances every savory note in the burger.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Brioche burger buns (toasted): Their pillowy texture and buttery taste make an utterly delicious base for your burger.
- Pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought): This creamy, zesty spread melts beautifully over the burger, elevating every bite.
- Butter lettuce leaves: These add a crisp, green snap and keep the assembly light and refreshing.
- Tomato slices: Their juicy freshness brings brightness and a hint of acidity.
- Pickle slices: Briny, crunchy, and tart—pickles cut through the creaminess for the perfect contrast.
- Vegetable oil: A quick drizzle ensures a gorgeous sear and keeps the patties from sticking.
How to Make Burgers with Pimento Cheese
Step 1: Shape and Season the Patties
Start by dividing your ground beef into four equal portions and gently forming them into patties about 3/4 inch thick. Don’t over-handle the meat; a light touch keeps the burgers tender. Season both sides of each patty with salt and black pepper, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor from the inside out. This simple step lays the foundation for those classic, crave-worthy burgers with pimento cheese.
Step 2: Preheat and Oil the Grill or Skillet
Crank up your grill or skillet over medium-high heat and let it get nice and hot. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the cooking surface so the patties sizzle from the moment they touch down. This helps you get that mouthwatering sear and ensures nothing sticks, making for easy flipping. The aroma of sizzling beef means you’re on track to burger perfection!
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Carefully place the seasoned patties onto the hot grill (or skillet), and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side. Don’t press down on them; you want all those delicious juices locked in. Give them a flip, then finish cooking to your preferred doneness—another 3 to 4 minutes for medium-rare to medium works great for Burgers with Pimento Cheese.
Step 4: Add the Pimento Cheese
During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with about 1/4 cup of pimento cheese. Quickly cover the grill or skillet to trap the heat, letting that gloriously cheesy layer soften and melt into the meat. Watching the cheese begin to ooze will have everyone’s mouth watering!
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the burgers finish, split and lightly toast your brioche buns. Just a minute or two on the grill or skillet adds a lovely crisp golden edge and heightens the buttery aroma, making every bite extra special.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Time for the fun part! Layer butter lettuce, a thick tomato slice, and a few pickle slices on the bottom bun. Gently add your pimento cheese-topped burger patty, then crown it with the toasted top bun. Every stack brings a burst of flavor and texture, making these Burgers with Pimento Cheese an experience you’ll want to repeat.
How to Serve Burgers with Pimento Cheese
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way in making your Burgers with Pimento Cheese both stunning and even more flavorful. Sprinkle some finely chopped chives or fresh parsley over the melted cheese for a splash of color, or dust with a pinch of smoked paprika if you want extra Southern flair. If you adore a little heat, tuck a few thin jalapeño slices underneath the patty for a spicy surprise!
Side Dishes
The bold, creamy flavors of Burgers with Pimento Cheese shine brightest next to simple, crowd-pleasing sides. Golden, crisp French fries or sweet potato wedges are a classic. For something refreshing, try a tangy vinegar-based slaw or a big, crunchy pickle spear. Grilled corn on the cob and potato salad make this burger feel right at home at picnics and barbecues alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Put a playful spin on your presentation by serving your Burgers with Pimento Cheese slider-style on mini brioche buns—perfect for a party platter. Or, skewer each assembled burger with an extra pickle or cherry tomato on top for color and fun. If you’re really feeling adventurous, serve your burger “open-faced” and drizzle hot honey or sriracha over the pimento cheese to wow your guests with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Burgers with Pimento Cheese, simply wrap the cooked patties individually in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store them separately from the buns and toppings in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Keeping the components separate ensures everything stays fresh and prevents the buns from becoming soggy.
Freezing
Uncooked burger patties can be shaped, then layered between parchment paper and frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. If you’ve already topped your cooked patties with pimento cheese, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that luscious texture.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat leftover burgers with pimento cheese in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to keep things moist. You can also reheat in the oven, wrapped in foil at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the cheese oily and the patties rubbery. Toasting fresh buns right before serving brings everything back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of pimento cheese?
Absolutely! While pimento cheese gives these burgers their Southern soul, you can swap in your favorite cheese spread or even classic cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just remember the unique creamy texture and tang of pimento cheese is what really makes Burgers with Pimento Cheese shine.
Can I cook the burgers in the oven instead of on the grill or skillet?
Yes, you can bake the patties on a foil-lined baking sheet at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. In the last two minutes, add the pimento cheese and broil briefly to melt. This works great, especially for feeding a crowd or during rainy days.
What’s the best way to make homemade pimento cheese?
Simply mix shredded sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and a pinch of cayenne until everything’s creamy and well-blended. Make it ahead for even more flavor—homemade truly takes your Burgers with Pimento Cheese to another level.
How do I prevent the burgers from shrinking while cooking?
Use your thumb to press a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This simple trick helps them cook more evenly and hold their shape, so your Burgers with Pimento Cheese fit perfectly on their buns every time.
Can I make Burgers with Pimento Cheese gluten-free?
Definitely! Pair your patties and pimento cheese with gluten-free buns, lettuce wraps, or sturdy grilled portobello mushroom caps for a delightfully satisfying, gluten-free meal that’s every bit as delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing Burgers with Pimento Cheese around your table—each bite bursts with flavor, comfort, and just a little Southern charm. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these burgers are sure to become a repeat request among your friends and family. Give them a try, and get ready to discover why this twist on a classic is so unforgettable!
Print
Burgers with Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Juicy burgers topped with creamy pimento cheese, fresh veggies, and served on toasted brioche buns – a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
For the patties:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For serving:
- 4 brioche burger buns (toasted)
- 1 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 butter lettuce leaves
- 4 tomato slices
- 4 pickle slices
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or skillet: Heat to medium-high.
- Form the patties: Divide beef into 4 portions, shape into 3/4 inch thick patties, season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the patties: Drizzle oil on grill or skillet, cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until desired doneness.
- Add pimento cheese: Top each patty with pimento cheese during the last minute of cooking, cover to melt.
- Assemble the burgers: Toast buns, place lettuce, tomato, pickle, and patty on each bun.
- Serve: Hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can make your own pimento cheese with shredded sharp cheddar, mayo, diced pimentos, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Try adding crispy bacon or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
