Georgia

Pimento Cheese Burger

Welcome to the South, where pimento cheese is lovingly called "the caviar of the South." This Georgia-style burger tops a juicy beef patty with creamy, tangy, slightly spicy homemade pimento cheese, creating pure Southern comfort in every bite.

45 min Serves 4 Grilled Southern

Equipment Needed

  • 🔥 Grill or Cast Iron Skillet
  • 🥣 Mixing Bowl
  • 🧀 Cheese Grater
  • 🌡 Meat Thermometer
  • 🍳 Skillet for Bacon

Instructions

  1. 1

    Make the Pimento Cheese

    In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise, mixing until smooth. Add the grated sharp cheddar, drained pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors develop.

  2. 2

    Cook the Bacon

    In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon strips until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep warm.

  3. 3

    Form the Patties

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently and form into 4 patties about 3/4 inch thick. Press a dimple in the center of each patty.

  4. 4

    Preheat the Grill

    Heat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F) or heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates if grilling.

  5. 5

    Grill the Patties

    Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 160°F. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, top each patty with a generous dollop of pimento cheese. Cover with a lid or foil to help it melt.

  6. 6

    Toast the Buns

    Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast on the grill or in a pan until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.

  7. 7

    Assemble the Burgers

    Place lettuce on the bottom bun. Add the pimento cheese-topped patty, then pile on two strips of crispy bacon, a thick tomato slice, and red onion. Add more pimento cheese to the top bun if desired.

  8. 8

    Serve Southern Style

    Serve immediately with classic Southern sides like fried okra, coleslaw, or mac and cheese. Sweet tea is the only appropriate beverage choice! Enjoy this taste of Georgia hospitality.

Tips & Variations

  • Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect the texture. For the creamiest pimento cheese, always grate the cheddar yourself from a block.
  • Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapenos to the pimento cheese or increase the cayenne for a spicier version. Some Southerners add a splash of hot sauce.
  • Cheese Blend: Traditional recipes use sharp cheddar, but some versions blend sharp and mild cheddar, or add a bit of smoked gouda for depth.
  • Room Temperature Cheese: Let the pimento cheese come to room temperature before serving for the best spreadability, or use it cold for a thicker topping.
  • Pickle Addition: Some Georgia cooks add a tablespoon of diced pickles or pickle juice to their pimento cheese for extra tang.
  • Make Ahead: Pimento cheese keeps refrigerated for up to a week. It's actually better after a day or two when flavors have melded together.