You know that feeling when you take your first bite of something so extraordinary it feels like a warm hug from your Southern roots? That’s exactly what you’ll get with my BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers. The magic lies in the homemade pimento cheese spread, blending creamy richness with a hint of smoky flavor that elevates each juicy burger patty to new heights. What makes this recipe a must-try is not just its quick prep but also its crowd-pleasing appeal—perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Serve these beauties on sesame buns topped with crispy fried onions and a zesty slaw, and you’ve got a hearty meal that sings comfort food. Ready to impress your taste buds with this Southern delight? Let’s dive into the joy of burger-making!

Why Are These Burgers So Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of smoky grilled beef and creamy pimento cheese creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these burgers any night of the week.

Southern Comfort: This recipe pays homage to Southern cuisine, making it a great option for gatherings or cozy family meals.

Customizable: Want a lighter meal? Substitute with turkey or a plant-based patty. Love spice? Just add jalapeños!

Total Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of textures—juicy beef, crunchy fried onions, and a zesty slaw—will impress friends and family alike.

Pair these with a side of homemade potato chips or a fresh garden salad for a fulfilled experience—just like in this Roasted Chicken Pollo recipe.

The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers Ingredients

• Find everything you need to create the ultimate comfort food experience!

For the Patties

Ground Beef – Use high-quality ground beef for juiciness; can substitute with turkey for a leaner option.
Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of the beef; adjust based on dietary needs.
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Adds spice; freshly cracked offers the best flavor.

For the Pimento Cheese Spread

Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Main cheese for the pimento spread, offering tanginess; can substitute with another sharp cheese.
Diced Pimentos/Roasted Red Peppers – Adds flavor to the pimento cheese; red bell peppers work well as a substitute.
Mayonnaise – Acts as a binder in the cheese spread; can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess to the pimento mixture; Neufchâtel cheese is a great lower-fat alternative.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; adjust based on personal taste.
Smoked Paprika – Gives a rich, smoky note; you can tweak the amount for more or less spice.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick; feel free to omit for a milder cheese spread.
Worcestershire Sauce – Depth of flavor enhancer; just a splash makes a world of difference.

For the Toppings

Pickled Red Onions – Adds a tangy sweetness; can be replaced with fresh onion or omitted for a milder taste.
Crispy Fried Onions – Provides crunch; can substitute with fresh veggies or omit for a lighter burger.
Green and Purple Cabbage – The base for the spicy slaw; adds texture and freshness.
Fresh Italian Flat Leaf Parsley – Adds a burst of flavor and color to your slaw.
Jalapeño – For those who love spice; adjust quantity based on your heat preference.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Tangy kick for the slaw; different vinegar types can point towards various taste profiles.

For the Buns

Buns – Choose sesame for added texture; gluten-free options are available for dietary restrictions.

With these wholesome and flavorful ingredients, you’re on your way to making The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers that are sure to please any crowd! 🌟

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 285°F and 300°F. For an added layer of flavor, throw in a chunk of pecan wood to infuse a subtle smoky essence into your burgers. This initial preparation sets the stage for cooking the juiciest pimento cheeseburgers.

Step 2: Season the Beef Patties
While the grill is heating, take your high-quality ground beef and shape it into burger patties. Generously season each side with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the beef’s natural flavors. You’ll want to create a delightful crust as they cook, which will elevate your pimento cheeseburgers to perfection.

Step 3: Grill the Burgers
Once your grill reaches the desired heat, place the seasoned patties on it, ensuring they are on indirect heat. Close the lid and allow the burgers to cook for about 15 minutes. This indirect method helps to lock in the juices while the smoky flavor penetrates the meat, creating irresistibly juicy pimento cheeseburgers.

Step 4: Prepare the Pimento Cheese Spread
While the burgers are grilling, it’s time to prepare the homemade pimento cheese. In a mixing bowl, combine the extra sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until smooth and creamy, making this cheese spread a star in your cheeseburger assembly.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Slaw
In another bowl, toss together the green and purple cabbage, finely chopped parsley, jalapeño, and apple cider vinegar to create your spicy slaw. Mix until the vegetables are well-coated. This slaw adds a refreshing crunch and a delightful zing, taking your pimento cheeseburgers to the next level.

Step 6: Melt the Pimento Cheese
After the burgers have grilled for 15 minutes, place a generous scoop of the prepared pimento cheese on each patty. Close the grill lid again and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes. The heat will melt the cheese beautifully, creating a gooey, luscious topping for your mouthwatering pimento cheeseburgers.

Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
With the cheese melted and burgers cooked to your liking, it’s time to assemble! Start with the bottom bun and layer on a generous serving of your spicy slaw. Next, add the cheesy patties topped with melted pimento cheese, followed by pickled red onions and crispy fried onions for that satisfying crunch. Crown with the top bun, and your pimento cheeseburgers are ready to delight!

Expert Tips for The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers

Perfect Temperature: Make sure your grill reaches 285°F – 300°F for juicy patties. Too hot can lead to burnt burgers, affecting flavor.
Indirect Cooking: Always grill on indirect heat to prevent charring. This method ensures your pimento cheeseburgers are cooked evenly and stay moist.
Check Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 160°F for medium burgers. This step avoids the guesswork of whether they’re cooked through.
Flavor Boost: Mixing in diced jalapeños into the beef or the cheese spread can enhance spiciness, making your pimento cheeseburgers even more thrilling.
Make Ahead: Prepare the pimento cheese the day before to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a time-saver and adds depth to your burgers!
Texture Matters: For a delightful crunch, don’t skip the crispy fried onions! They add a lovely contrast to the creamy cheese and juicy meat.

What to Serve with The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers

Crafting the perfect meal to accompany your pimento cheeseburgers adds even more joy to your dining experience.

Crispy Potato Chips: The salty crunch provides a delightful contrast to the creamy pimento cheese while keeping things casual and fun.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the burgers, adding a refreshing touch.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn brushed with butter complements the smoky notes of the burgers, creating that quintessential summer vibe.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory cheeseburgers, while the crispy texture makes every bite satisfying.
Coleslaw: A classic side that mirrors the slaw on the burger; its crunch and tang enhance the overall meal. Try adding a hint of apple cider vinegar for an extra zing!
Ice-Cold Beer: A hoppy IPA or a smooth lager is the perfect partner to wash down those juicy burgers while enhancing their flavor.
Lemonade: The tartness of homemade lemonade refreshes the palate and perfectly contrasts the richness of the pimento cheese.
Banana Pudding: For dessert, this classic Southern treat rounds off the meal with its creamy layers and comforting sweetness—a true crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead Options

These BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the pimento cheese up to 3 days in advance; simply combine all the cheese ingredients, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and this savory spread will be just as delicious when ready to use. Additionally, you can form the burger patties up to 24 hours ahead; refrigerate them tightly wrapped to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, grill the patties as instructed and top them with the pre-made pimento cheese, melting it for that gooey goodness. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious burgers ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers

Fridge: Store leftover assembled burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. If possible, keep toppings separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: You can freeze raw burger patties (without cheese and toppings) for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw frozen patties in the fridge overnight, then grill or pan-fry until heated through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.

Pimento Cheese: The spread can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week, enhancing flavors as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead component for The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers.

The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these burgers to your taste buds! With a little flair, you can enhance the flavor and texture in delightful ways.

Turkey Alternative: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey to create a healthier cheeseburger without losing any taste. The subtle flavors complement the pimento cheese beautifully!
Vegan Version: Use plant-based patties and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to craft a tasty vegan pimento cheeseburger that everyone can enjoy. A great option for gatherings!
Spicy Twist: Add more jalapeños directly into the beef mixture or increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the cheese spread for an extra kick. If you dare, drizzle some spicy mayo on top!
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack or gouda in your pimento cheese mix for a unique twist. Each cheese offers a unique flavor that will change the whole experience!
Sourdough Buns: Instead of sesame buns, try using toasted sourdough for a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy pimento cheese. It brings an artisanal touch!
Pickle Power: Add dill pickle slices into the assembly for an extra burst of tanginess. The crunchy contrast with the creamy cheese will have you coming back for more!
BBQ Infusion: Brush the patties with your favorite BBQ sauce during grilling for a smoky-sweet flavor that melds perfectly with the cheeseburgers. A superb nod to Southern BBQ cuisine!

For more mouth-watering inspiration, try the flavorsome Italian Pot Roast or get a taste of bold cuisine with the Beef Mein Stir recipes!

The BEST Pimento Cheeseburgers Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for these burgers?
Absolutely! For the juiciest results, I recommend using high-quality ground beef with a fat content of 80/20. This ensures your burgers stay moist and flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, though it will yield a slightly different texture.

How should I store leftover pimento cheeseburgers?
For the best taste and freshness, store leftover assembled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, if possible, keep the toppings separate to prevent the buns from becoming soggy and unappetizing.

Can I freeze the pimento cheeseburgers?
Certainly! You can freeze raw burger patties (without the cheese and toppings) for up to 3 months. Wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and grill until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.

How can I ensure my burgers don’t dry out while grilling?
To keep your burgers juicy, make sure to grill them over indirect heat. This method allows the burgers to cook evenly without charring, locking in the moisture. A reliable instant-read thermometer is essential; aim for 160°F for perfectly cooked burgers every time.

What should I do if my pimento cheese is too runny?
If your pimento cheese turns out runny, don’t fret! You can thicken it up by mixing in additional cream cheese or some shredded cheese. Blend well until you’ve reached your desired consistency. If you want a creamier spread, consider chilling it for a bit—this often helps!

What are some dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you have dietary concerns, there are plenty of substitutions available! For gluten-free options, simply use gluten-free buns. If you’re monitoring your dairy intake, try a vegan cheese alternative instead of traditional cheese and yogurt in the pimento spread. Adjust the spice level by omitting jalapeños or red pepper flakes based on your preferences.