Smoky Pesto Cheeseburgers
Fire up your taste buds with these irresistible Smoky Pesto Cheeseburgers! Juicy ground beef patties are perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika for a subtle kick of smoky flavor, then crowned with gooey melted cheese of your choice—cheddar, gouda, or Swiss. A vibrant spread of basil pesto adds an herby, garlicky zing, while fresh toppings like peppery arugula, ripe tomatoes, and optional red onion slices deliver a delightful crunch. Toasted buttered burger buns provide the perfect golden finish, making every bite abundantly satisfying. Ready in just 35 minutes, these gourmet-inspired cheeseburgers are ideal for backyard barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving elevated comfort food.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 0.25 cup Basil pesto
- 4 pieces Cheese slices (cheddar, gouda, or Swiss)
- 4 pieces Burger buns
- 4 leaves Arugula or lettuce leaves
- 4 slices Tomato slices
- 4 slices Red onion slices (optional)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Divide the seasoned beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. Use your thumb to make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the burger patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or adjust the time to your preferred level of doneness.
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, cover the skillet (or close the grill lid), and allow the cheese to melt.
While the patties are cooking, split the burger buns and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast the buns in a separate skillet or on the grill until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
To assemble the burgers, spread a generous spoonful of basil pesto on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
Place a cheese-covered patty on top of the pesto, followed by a leaf of arugula or lettuce, a slice of tomato, and a slice of red onion (if using).
Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately, accompanied by your favorite sides.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
666 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.9 g | 63% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.2 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 125 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 1060 mg | 46% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 24.0 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.5 g | ||
| Protein | 31.3 g | 63% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 313 mg | 24% | |
| Iron | 4.0 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 473 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
