The Grilled Cheese Burger takes a classic cheeseburger to the next level by using two crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwiches as the “bun” instead of traditional bread. With a juicy beef patty, melted cheddar cheese, and all the classic burger fixings, it’s a cheesy, indulgent twist on the original!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Grilled Cheese Burger is the ultimate comfort food for cheese lovers. The crispy, buttery grilled cheese acts as a perfect replacement for the usual burger bun, adding extra flavor and texture to every bite. With a juicy beef patty, melty cheddar cheese, fresh tomato, and crispy lettuce, this burger delivers all the classic burger flavors—plus, that irresistible cheese pull! Whether you’re craving something indulgent or just want to try a fun twist on a classic, this burger is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 slices of bread (thick cut, your choice of white or sourdough)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Lettuce leaves
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and sriracha (if using). Stir to combine and set aside.
- Cook the Beef Patty:
- Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form it into a patty.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the beef patty for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Top with cheddar cheese slices during the last minute of cooking to allow them to melt.
- Grill the Bread:
- While the patty cooks, butter one side of each slice of bread. Grill the bread in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Assemble the Burger:
- Spread the sauce on the ungrilled sides of the bread.
- Place the cooked beef patty with melted cheese on the bottom slice of grilled bread.
- Top with a slice of tomato, lettuce leaves, and the second slice of grilled bread, grilled side facing in.
- Slice and serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add more sriracha or a few slices of jalapeños to the burger for extra heat.
- Different Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for Swiss, American, or your favorite cheese for a unique twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Use a veggie patty or portobello mushroom instead of the beef patty for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon to the burger for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, pressing the sandwich slightly to get the crispy texture back.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based patty for a different take on this burger.
How do I make the grilled cheese extra crispy?
Use a generous amount of butter on the bread and cook the sandwiches over medium heat until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Can I use any type of cheese?
While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use any cheese you like! Try Swiss, mozzarella, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the cheese from spilling out of the burger?
Make sure to let the cheese melt completely on the patty during the last minute of cooking. Using thicker slices of cheese can also help it stay intact.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
How do I make this burger spicier?
Add more sriracha to the sauce, or top the burger with sliced jalapeños or a spicy chipotle mayo for an added kick.
How can I make this burger healthier?
Use lean ground beef or turkey for the patty and opt for whole wheat bread for a healthier alternative to the classic grilled cheese.
Can I make this burger without the fried egg?
While a fried egg would add an extra layer of richness, you can skip it if you prefer a simpler version of the burger.
Can I make this burger with a non-stick skillet?
Yes, a non-stick skillet works perfectly for grilling the bread and cooking the patty. Just be sure to use a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.
How do I make sure the burger patty is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patty reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for ground beef or pork.
Conclusion
The Grilled Cheese Burger is a comforting, indulgent twist on a classic favorite, combining the best of both worlds: a juicy, flavorful beef patty and the melty, crispy goodness of grilled cheese. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or simply want to try something new, this burger will hit the spot with its cheesy, savory, and crispy elements. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a fun weekend treat, the Grilled Cheese Burger is sure to become your new favorite sandwich.
Grilled Cheese Burger
A deliciously indulgent burger featuring a juicy beef patty, melty cheese, and all the classic burger fixings sandwiched between two golden, crispy grilled cheese slices instead of a traditional bun. Perfect for anyone who loves cheese and a twist on a classic!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 slices of bread (thick cut, your choice of white or sourdough)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Lettuce leaves
- For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and sriracha (if using). Stir to combine and set aside.
- Cook the beef patty: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form it into a patty.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the beef patty for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Top with cheddar cheese slices during the last minute of cooking to allow them to melt.
- Grill the bread: While the patty cooks, butter one side of each slice of bread. Grill the bread in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Assemble the burger: Spread the sauce on the ungrilled sides of the bread. Place the cooked beef patty with melted cheese on the bottom slice of grilled bread. Top with a slice of tomato, lettuce leaves, and the second slice of grilled bread, grilled side facing in.
- Slice and serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier burger, you can add more sriracha or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- For a different flavor, try using Swiss cheese or American cheese instead of cheddar.
- Serve with a side of crispy fries or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg