These Cheese-Stuffed Beef Patties are juicy, flavorful, and packed with melted cheese in the center. They’re easy enough for a weeknight dinner but satisfying enough for a weekend cookout. Serve them with roasted vegetables, salad, mashed potatoes, or tucked into burger buns.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, preferably 80–85% lean
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons finely minced onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional
For the Cheese Filling
- 4 oz (115 g) cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 oz (60 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded or cut into small pieces
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture
Place the ground beef in a large bowl.
Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, minced onion, and parsley.
Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined.
Don’t overmix, because this can make the patties dense instead of tender.
2. Make the Cheese Filling
Combine the cheddar and mozzarella.
Keeping the cheese in small pieces makes it easier to seal inside the beef.
3. Form the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions.
Flatten four portions into thin rounds.
Place a small handful of cheese in the center of each round, leaving about ½ inch around the edges.
Take the remaining four portions of beef and flatten them into rounds.
Place one on top of each cheese-filled patty.
Carefully pinch the edges together to completely seal the cheese inside.
Gently reshape each one into a thick patty.
Make sure there are no cracks or openings, or the cheese may leak during cooking.
4. Cook the Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the olive oil and butter.
Place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between them.
Cook for approximately 5–6 minutes on the first side.
Flip carefully and cook another 5–6 minutes, or until the beef reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
If the patties are thick, reduce the heat slightly and cook a little longer so the center cooks without burning the outside.
5. Rest
Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for 3–5 minutes.
This allows the juices to redistribute and gives the melted cheese a chance to settle.
🧀 Best Cheese Choices
You can customize the filling with:
- Cheddar – sharp and classic
- Mozzarella – extra stretchy
- Pepper Jack – spicy and creamy
- Swiss – rich and nutty
- Provolone – smooth and flavorful
- Gouda – buttery and slightly smoky
For an especially gooey center, use a combination of cheddar + mozzarella.
Serving Ideas
Serve these patties with:
- Crispy roasted potatoes
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Green beans
- Coleslaw
- Garden salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Pickles and sliced onions
For a burger-style meal, place a patty on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite sauce.
Easy Garlic Butter Topping
For an extra-rich finish, melt:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 minced garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Brush the mixture over the hot patties just before serving.
Helpful Tips
Seal the cheese completely: This is the most important step. Any opening can allow melted cheese to escape.
Don’t make the patties too thin: A thicker beef layer provides better protection for the cheese.
Chill before cooking: Refrigerating the assembled patties for 15–20 minutes can help them hold their shape.
Don’t press them with your spatula: Pressing releases flavorful juices and can force cheese out.
Use a meat thermometer: Ground beef should reach 160°F (71°C) internally.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: About 32 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Dish