There’s nothing like the satisfying sizzle of a burger on the grill to elevate an ordinary evening into something special. Picture this: a juicy patty, rich with flavor, lovingly topped with creamy pimento cheese that melts perfectly, and a crispy strip of bacon adding just the right amount of crunch. It’s hard to believe that such an indulgent meal can be whipped up right in your own kitchen in under an hour!
Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or hosting friends for a weekend cookout, the Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese is your answer to meal monotony. This recipe serves as a delicious canvas for creativity—feel free to tweak the toppings or the cheese to suit your mood or dietary preferences. You might even surprise yourself with how much joy a simple burger can bring! So let’s gather those ingredients and get ready to create a burger experience that’s both unforgettable and utterly delightful.
Why is the Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese a must-try?
Juicy Goodness: Each bite of this burger offers a mouthwatering sensation, thanks to a perfectly seared patty that’s both tender and flavorful.
Indulgent Topping: The creamy pimento cheese melts beautifully, elevating the taste and adding a delightful tang.
Customization: Make it your own! Switch up the proteins or experiment with different cheese blends to match your cravings.
Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for simplicity and can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve these at your next barbecue, and watch your guests rave about the flavor! You’ll quickly establish yourself as the grill master among friends and family.
Rapscallion Burger Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor-packed masterpiece!
For the Burger Patty
- Ground Beef – Choose high-fat content (80/20) for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Salt – A simple sprinkle enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
- Pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely warmth.
For the Toppings
- Pimento Cheese – This creamy, tangy delight elevates your burger experience; feel free to substitute with any cheese spread you adore.
- Bacon – Adds a delightful crunch and smokiness; can be left out for a lighter option.
- Lettuce – Provides refreshing crunch; use your favorite greens for added texture.
- Onion – Pick raw for sharpness or caramelized for sweetness, depending on your preference.
- Tomato – Fresh slices bring a burst of juiciness and color.
For the Bun
- Burger Buns – A sturdy yet soft option like toasted brioche is perfect to hold all the delicious ingredients together.
- Mustard – Adds a zesty sharpness to balance the richness of the burger and cheese; substitute with mayonnaise if you’d like a creamier option.
Now that you have all the ingredients, get ready to savor the deliciousness of the Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese!
How to Make Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese
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Prepare the Grill: Light up your grill and set one side to high heat, creating an area for indirect cooking. This will help maintain juicy burgers!
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Form the Burger: Shape the ground beef into a patty, about ¾ inch thick, and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Make an indentation in the center to prevent puffing.
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Sear the Patty: Place the patty on the hottest part of the grill. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until a beautiful brown crust forms and the inside reaches medium-rare doneness.
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Add Pimento Cheese: Once the burger is cooked, spread about 1½ ounces of pimento cheese on top of the patty. Move the burger to the cooler side of the grill and cover for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
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Toast the Bun: Meanwhile, brush the insides of the burger buns with melted butter. Toast them on the indirect heat side of the grill until golden brown and irresistible.
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Assemble the Burger: Spread mustard on the bottom bun, followed by lettuce, onion slices, and tomato. Top with the cheesy burger patty and crispy bacon. Place the top bun and prepare to enjoy!
Optional: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese Variations
Let your culinary creativity shine with these fun twists on the classic burger experience!
- Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey for a lighter, leaner burger option that’s still juicy and satisfying.
- Cheese Medley: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or smoky gouda to elevate the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Stir diced jalapeños into the pimento cheese for an extra layer of heat and excitement in every bite.
- Veggie Delight: Try a black bean or chickpea patty as a plant-based alternative that packs plenty of flavor and nutrition.
- Herby Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley to the burger mix for added freshness and aromatic flair.
- Savory Sauce: Drizzle a zesty chipotle mayo or barbecue sauce on your burger for an irresistible flavor boost.
- Oven-Baked Crisps: Instead of bacon, opt for crispy baked onion rings to add a delightful crunch while keeping it lighter.
- Sweet and Tangy: Top with a slice of grilled pineapple for a sweet contrast against the savory elements of the burger.
With these fun variations, your Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese can become a whole new culinary adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Rapscallion Burgers with Pimento Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pimento cheese up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. Additionally, you can shape the burger patties and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just grill the patties as directed, and follow the steps to melt the cheese and toast the buns. This way, you’ll save precious time during busy weeknights while still enjoying delicious, homemade burgers that are just as satisfying!
How to Store and Freeze Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese
Fridge: Store leftover burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pimento Cheese: This topping can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Make it ahead and let the flavors deepen before spreading it on the burger.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the burger in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding the pimento cheese in the last few minutes to melt it beautifully.
Expert Tips for the Rapscallion Burger
- Meat Matters: Use high-fat ground beef (80/20) for a juicy Rapscallion Burger. Leaner meat might dry out during cooking.
- Perfect Indentation: Make a slight indentation in the center of the patty before grilling. This helps prevent puffing, ensuring even cooking and a perfect burger shape.
- Melt Without Burn: Keep an eye on the pimento cheese under the broiler. Broil just long enough to melt, avoiding burning the edges for the best flavor.
- Resting Time: Let the burger rest for a few minutes after grilling. This locks in the juices, giving you a flavorful and succulent bite.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with toppings, but remember that less is often more. It allows the flavors of the Rapscallion Burger to shine through without overwhelming your taste buds.
What to Serve with Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese?
Elevate your burger night with sides that add the perfect complement to the deliciousness on your plate.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the burger, adding an irresistible crunch.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of greens and colorful veggies brings brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich burger.
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Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw provides a satisfying texture and helps cut through the richness of the cheese.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and perfectly charred, corn adds a seasonal touch that pairs wonderfully with outdoor cookouts.
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Homemade Potato Chips: Crunchy chips seasoned with sea salt make for an ideal crunchy snack alongside your flavorful burger.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A cool beverage cuts the richness and refreshes as you dive into your juicy Rapscallion Burger, making every bite delightful.
Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the Rapscallion Burger?
I absolutely recommend using ground beef with a high-fat content, like 80/20. This ratio provides maximum juiciness and flavor, making for a deliciously succulent patty. Leaner cuts may lead to a drier burger, so don’t skimp on the fat!
How long can I store leftovers of the Rapscallion Burger?
Leftover burgers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the microwave or on a skillet, and add a splash of water to retain moisture.
Can I freeze the Rapscallion Burger?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This ensures they stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How should I store the pimento cheese, and how long does it last?
You can store pimento cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. I often prepare it a day in advance to let the flavors deepen—truly, it gets better with a little time!
What should I do if the burger puffs up while cooking?
To prevent the burger from puffing up, make a slight indentation in the center of the patty before grilling. This little trick helps it cook evenly and keeps that perfect burger shape intact!
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
If you’re avoiding gluten, simply swap the burger buns for gluten-free alternatives. There are plenty of delicious options available that will still hold up to all those flavorful ingredients!
Savor the Juicy Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Light up your grill and set one side to high heat, creating an area for indirect cooking.
- Shape the ground beef into a patty, about ¾ inch thick, and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the patty on the hottest part of the grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until medium-rare.
- Spread about 1½ ounces of pimento cheese on top of the patty and cover it on the cooler side of the grill for 1-2 minutes.
- Brush the insides of the burger buns with melted butter and toast them on the indirect heat side of the grill.
- Spread mustard on the bottom bun, add lettuce, onion, tomato, and the cheesy burger patty topped with crispy bacon.