Pimento Cheeseburger
The Carolina Pimento Cheeseburger is a Southern masterpiece, topping a juicy beef patty with creamy, tangy homemade pimento cheese and cool, crunchy coleslaw. This is comfort food that feels like a warm Carolina welcome.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Make the pimento cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with mayonnaise and mix until smooth. Add the grated sharp cheddar, drained pimentos, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Prep the coleslaw: If making from scratch, combine shredded cabbage with your favorite coleslaw dressing. Carolina-style uses a vinegar-based dressing, which cuts through the richness of the pimento cheese perfectly.
Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape into patties about 3/4 inch thick, making them slightly wider than your buns. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty.
Season the patties: Season both sides of each patty generously with salt and black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Heat the skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it's smoking hot. This ensures you get a beautiful crust on the patties.
Cook the patties: Place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook for 4 minutes on the first side, then flip. Immediately top each patty with a generous dollop of pimento cheese (about 2-3 tablespoons).
Finish cooking: Cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness, or until the pimento cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove patties to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes.
Toast the buns: Butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them in the skillet until golden brown, about 1 minute.
Assemble the burgers: Place each pimento cheese-topped patty on a bottom bun. Top with a generous helping of coleslaw. Close with the top bun.
Serve: Serve immediately with sweet tea and hush puppies for the full Carolina experience. These burgers are messy and delicious - have plenty of napkins ready!
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent the smooth, creamy texture you want. Always grate fresh.
- Add heat: Mix in some diced jalapenos or use pepper jack cheese for a spicier version.
- Duke's mayo: True Carolinians swear by Duke's mayonnaise for the most authentic pimento cheese.
- Leftover pimento cheese: Spread it on crackers, stuff it in celery, or use it for grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Try smoked cheddar: For a twist, use half sharp and half smoked cheddar in your pimento cheese.
- Vinegar slaw vs creamy: Eastern NC prefers vinegar slaw, while Western NC goes for creamy. Try both!