Juicy Lucy Burger

A Minneapolis specialty burger with melted cheese stuffed inside the patty instead of on top.

Preparation Time

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Cook: 8-10 minutes
• Rest: 5 minutes
• Total: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For Patties

• 1½ pounds ground chuck (15-20% fat content), chilled
• 4 slices American cheese (about 3 ounces)
• 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Serving

• 4 (4-inch) hamburger buns, split and toasted
• Sliced pickles
• Vegetable oil, for grilling

Instructions

1. Prepare cheese:

   • Cut each cheese slice into 4 squares
   • Stack pieces to form 4 stacks
   • Set aside

2. Make patty mixture:

   • Mix meat, salt, garlic powder, Worcestershire, and pepper
   • Mix just until evenly combined

3. Form patties:

   • Divide meat into 8 equal portions
   • Press each portion into ¼-inch thick patty
   • Make patties 1 inch wider than buns
   • Place cheese stack in center of 4 patties
   • Top with remaining patties
   • Pinch edges to seal completely
   • Shape into uniform patties
   • Refrigerate while preparing grill

4. Cook burgers:

   • Heat grill to medium-high (375-425°F)
   • Oil grill grates well
   • Grill 3-4 minutes per side
   • Do not press down on patties
   • Cook until well marked and done

5. Rest and serve:

   • Let rest 5 minutes
   • Place on toasted buns
   • Top with pickles
   • Serve immediately

Notes

• Use high-quality chuck with 15-20% fat content
• Can substitute American cheese with mild cheddar or pepper jack
• Use soft hamburger buns (avoid brioche or crusty buns)
• Resting is crucial to prevent burning hot cheese
• Never skip sealing the edges well
• Watch for cheese bursts while cooking