Description
Authentic Southern Pimento Cheese Burgers feature juicy ground beef patties topped with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese spread made from sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and a blend of spices. Toasted buns add a buttery crunch, making these burgers a flavorful Southern classic perfect for quick and satisfying meals.
Ingredients
Pimento Cheese Spread
- 4 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise plus 1 tablespoon
- 1 tablespoon diced pimentos
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Burger Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds ground beef chuck
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 teaspoons butter for buns
Instructions
- Prepare the Pimento Cheese Spread: In a bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients well. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the burgers.
- Form the Burger Patties: In a medium bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and black pepper evenly distributed. Divide this mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1 inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent shrinking during cooking.
- Toast the Buns: Heat an iron skillet over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon butter. Place the cut sides of two buns in the skillet to toast until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Repeat for the remaining buns using the remaining butter.
- Cook the Burgers: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high. Add the burger patties and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on the first side until the bottoms are nicely browned. Flip the patties and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until they reach desired doneness.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each cooked burger patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Spoon approximately two tablespoons of pimento cheese spread directly onto each patty. Top with the bun tops and serve immediately.
Notes
- Pressing an indentation in the burger patties helps keep them flat and prevents shrinking during cooking.
- Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for the best texture and flavor in the pimento cheese spread.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
- Butter the buns before toasting for a richer flavor and crispy texture.
- Use an iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heat distribution while cooking.
- Cook burgers to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
