These juicy Cheese-Stuffed Beef Patties are packed with melted cheese in the center and seasoned to perfection. They make an easy family dinner and are delicious served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, burger buns, or a fresh salad.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 for the juiciest results)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Filling
- 6–8 oz (170–225 g) cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese, cut into small cubes
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra flavor)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Cast-iron skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill
- Spatula
- Instant-read meat thermometer (recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Beef
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Mix just until everything is incorporated—overmixing can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions.
Flatten each portion into a thin patty about ¼ inch thick.
Place several cubes of cheese in the center of four patties, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges.
Top each with another patty and carefully pinch the edges together to completely seal in the cheese. Shape into thick, even patties.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the patties for 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, as this releases the juices.
For extra richness, add the butter during the last minute and spoon the melted butter over the patties.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches:
- 160°F (71°C) for ground beef
Step 4: Rest
Transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside and prevents the cheese from spilling out too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Garlic butter green beans
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted vegetables
- Burger buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite sauce
- Fresh garden salad
Tips for Success
- Use beef with 20% fat for juicy, flavorful patties.
- Seal the edges tightly to keep the cheese from leaking.
- Chill the stuffed patties for 10–15 minutes before cooking if they feel soft.
- Don’t flip the patties more than once.
- Let the meat rest before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Variations
- Bacon Cheese Patties: Add cooked, crumbled bacon with the cheese.
- Mushroom Swiss: Stuff with Swiss cheese and sautéed mushrooms.
- Spicy Jalapeño: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
- Italian Style: Fill with mozzarella and chopped basil, then serve with marinara.
- Blue Cheese: Stuff with blue cheese crumbles for a bold flavor.
Storage
Refrigerate leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze uncooked or cooked patties for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 560
- Protein: 39g
- Fat: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 690mg