There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of bacon and the creamy goodness of pimento cheese atop a perfectly grilled burger. That moment, when you bite into a Rapscallion Burger and feel the explosion of flavor, is nothing short of revelatory. I first crafted this recipe during a last-minute cookout with friends, and it turned out to be an unexpected hit, transforming a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
Now, this burger packs more than just taste; it’s a celebration. Ready in just 15 minutes, the fusion of juicy ground beef, tangy pimento cheese, and crispy toppings creates a comforting dish perfect for any mealtime. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a hearty dinner, these burgers will reignite your love for home-cooked meals. Join me in discovering the easy steps to create a meal that feels indulgent, yet can be whipped up on a busy weeknight!
Why is the Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavors: Each bite bursts with a tantalizing mix of juicy beef, creamy pimento cheese, and smoky bacon, elevating your burger game to new heights.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings with friends.
Endless Variations: Feel free to get creative! Swap out beef for turkey or a plant-based patty, and customize the cheese for a personal twist.
Comfort Food Delight: This isn’t just any burger; it’s a meal that hugs your taste buds, perfect for satisfying a craving or impressing guests.
Homemade Goodness: Skip the fast food and embrace homemade perfection, bringing together fresh ingredients that your family will love!
Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese Ingredients
• Here you’ll find everything you need to craft your delicious Rapscallion Burger!
For the Burger
- Ground Beef – The key protein for the patty; lean cuts make for a healthier burger option.
- Salt – Enhances the meat’s flavor; adjust to your dietary preferences.
- Pepper – Adds a nice touch of spice; for more heat, feel free to substitute with cayenne.
For the Toppings
- Pimento Cheese – This creamy, zesty topping brings the burger to life; make your own for a personalized touch or grab some store-bought.
- Burger Buns – Choose soft, tasty buns; whole wheat or gluten-free options are excellent alternatives.
- Mustard – Adds a tangy kick; substitute with ketchup for a sweeter vibe.
- Lettuce, Onion, Tomato – Fresh toppings for crunch and color; use your favorite greens.
For Optional Additions
- Crispy Bacon – For that smoky crunch that complements the creamy cheese beautifully.
- Jalapeños – Spice up your pimento cheese mix for an extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
How to Make Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese
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Preheat the grill: Get your grill roaring to high temperature, around 450°F, ensuring it’s hot enough to create a beautiful sear on your burgers.
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Form the patties: Shape the ground beef into four equal patties, making a slight indentation in the center. Season them generously with salt and pepper to bring out that savory flavor.
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Sear the patties: Place the burger patties on the hottest part of the grill. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they achieve a nice, golden-brown crust.
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Melt the cheese: Move the burgers to indirect heat, then generously spread 1½ ounces of creamy pimento cheese on top of each patty. Pop them under the broiler just until the cheese melts, around 2-3 minutes.
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Toast the buns: While the cheese melts, brush the insides of your burger buns with melted butter. Toast them on the grill until they turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
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Assemble the burgers: Begin with the bottom half of the toasted bun, spreading on tangy mustard. Layer on the lettuce, onion, and tomato, then place the cheesy burger patty on top, followed by crispy bacon, and finish with the bun lid.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Rapscallion Burgers with Pimento Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the pimento cheese up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, shape the burger patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. On serving day, all you need to do is grill the patties, melt the cheese under the broiler, and toast the buns for that delicious buttery crunch. You’ll have restaurant-quality burgers ready in no time, saving you precious minutes during busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese?
Transform your burger experience with delightful sides and drinks that create a meal your family will love.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispiness pair beautifully with the savory burger, offering a colorful, flavorful crunch.
- Classic Coleslaw: This fresh, tangy side provides a cooling contrast to the richness of the pimento cheese and bacon. The crunchy veggies keep things lively on the plate!
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summer favorite, the smoky sweetness of grilled corn complements the burger’s flavors perfectly. Slather some lime butter on top for an extra zing.
- Creamy Macaroni Salad: This comforting dish adds a creamy texture that echoes the pimento cheese. It’s deliciously satisfying and easy to prepare ahead!
- Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing: The crispness of iceberg lettuce and the sharpness of blue cheese add an exciting twist and balance the rich burger flavors.
- Beer or Lemonade Spritzers: Offer a refreshing drink option—a light beer or tangy lemonade spritzer enhances the meal while cleansing your palate between bites.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, serve warm cookies that bring nostalgia to the table, wrapping up your burger night with a comforting touch.
Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this burger your own with these delicious ideas!
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Spicy Pimento: Mix diced jalapeños into the pimento cheese for a punchy twist. The added heat will ignite your taste buds and enhance the overall flavor.
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Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack or mozzarella instead of traditional pimento cheese for a delightful flavor shift. Each cheese brings its unique personality to the burger, creating fresh experiences in every bite.
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Turkey Option: Use ground turkey as a leaner option for a healthier burger without sacrificing flavor. You’ll find a delicious balance with that creamy pimento topping.
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BBQ Flavor: Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce to the burger for a sweet and tangy kick. The combination of flavors will make this burger reminiscent of summer cookouts.
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Gluten-Free: Swap traditional buns for gluten-free options, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious creation without worry. It opens up the world of flavors to those with dietary constraints.
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Veggie Delight: Consider a roasted portobello mushroom cap as an alternative to beef or turkey for a hearty, satisfying vegetarian burger experience. The umami flavors will wonderfully complement the pimento cheese.
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Crunchy Toppings: Add crispy onion rings or fried pickles for an irresistible crunch that elevates your burger. These toppings bring textural contrast and delight with every bite.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh parsley or cilantro into your burger mixture for a burst of herbal freshness. This subtle twist brightens the flavor profile and adds a fun dimension to your homemade delight.
Expert Tips for Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese
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Quality Beef: Use freshly ground beef for the best flavor. Avoid pre-packaged ground beef, which may have fillers that dilute taste.
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Don’t Over-Press: Resist the urge to press down on the patties while cooking. This common mistake can lead to dry burgers by squeezing out natural juices.
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Right Cheese Temperature: Allow your pimento cheese to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using. This ensures a smoother melt on your burger.
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Patty Size: Make your patties slightly larger than the buns, as they shrink during cooking. Proper sizing ensures the perfect burger-to-bun ratio.
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Grilling Method: Using indirect heat is key—this technique not only melts the pimento cheese perfectly but also helps avoid overcooking the beef.
How to Store and Freeze Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese
Fridge: Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the burgers have cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: You can freeze uncooked burger patties for up to 3 months. Wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable plastic bag for optimal freshness.
Pimento Cheese: If you have extra pimento cheese, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat slightly before spreading on your burger for the best experience.
Reheating: To reheat burgers, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Adding fresh toppings after reheating can refresh the flavors of the Rapscallion Burger.
Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for the burgers?
Absolutely! For the juiciest and most flavorful Rapscallion Burger, I recommend using ground beef that is around 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat). The fat content provides moisture and flavor while keeping the patty tender. Leaner cuts can lead to a drier burger, so don’t shy away from a little fat!
How should I store leftover burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes—perfect for a quick meal!
Can I freeze the uncooked burger patties?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze uncooked patties, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them inside a resealable plastic bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you know when to enjoy them!
What should I do if the pimento cheese doesn’t melt properly on the burger?
If your pimento cheese isn’t melting as desired, here’s a step-by-step that might help: First, ensure you’re using freshly made or properly softened cheese at room temperature. When you place the patty on indirect heat, keep the lid closed to trap more heat around the cheese. If that doesn’t work, you can always pop the burger under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes to get that gooey effect. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Are there any dietary considerations I should take into account?
Definitely, it’s always wise to consider food allergies or dietary restrictions! If you are serving to guests, ask about allergies to common ingredients like dairy (in the pimento cheese) or gluten (in the buns). For those looking for alternatives, you can use dairy-free cheese and gluten-free buns, making this burger accessible to a wider range of diets. Always best to check with loved ones before grilling!
Delicious Rapscallion Burger with Pimento Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to high temperature (around 450°F).
- Form ground beef into four equal patties, season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the patties on the hottest part of the grill for about 2 minutes on each side.
- Move patties to indirect heat, spread pimento cheese on top, broil until melted (2-3 minutes).
- Brush burger buns with melted butter and toast them on the grill until golden brown (1-2 minutes).
- Assemble burgers with mustard, lettuce, onion, tomato, cheesy patty, bacon, and top bun.