Juicy Cheese-Stuffed Burgers with Pesto Aioli on Toasted Brioche

There’s nothing quite like a homemade burger that’s packed with flavor and a gooey, cheesy surprise in the middle. These cheese-stuffed burgers take your classic patty to the next level: a blend of Italian cheeses is tucked inside seasoned ground beef, then grilled until the meat is charred and the cheese is perfectly melted. Served on a toasted brioche bun slathered with a quick pesto aioli, this burger is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Whether you fire up the grill or use a stovetop pan, these burgers come together in about 20 minutes. The pesto aioli adds a fresh, herby kick that complements the rich beef and creamy cheese. Serve them at your next cookout or weeknight dinner-they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

Log in to save recipes and build weekly shopping lists.

Ingredients

20 ounce Ground BeefView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

4 unit Brioche BunsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 ounce PestoView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 ounce MayonnaiseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

4 ounce Italian Cheese BlendView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 teaspoon Cooking OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and mayonnaise until well combined. Set aside. Halve the brioche buns.
2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ½-inch-thick round patty. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Place half of the Italian cheese blend (about 2 ounces) evenly onto 2 of the patties. Gently fold the meat over the cheese to enclose it completely, forming a stuffed patty. Repeat with the remaining patties and cheese. Season the outside of each patty with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Alternatively, heat a drizzle of oil in a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the stuffed patties for 3-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, top each patty with the remaining cheese and let it melt. At the same time, place the brioche buns cut-side down on the grill or pan and toast until golden.
6. Spread the pesto aioli on the cut sides of the toasted buns. Place the cheese-stuffed patties on the bottom buns, then close with the top buns. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, any melting cheese like cheddar, mozzarella or provolone works well.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

You can form the stuffed patties up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Cook just before serving.

What if I don't have a grill?

A stovetop grill pan or large skillet works perfectly. Cook over medium-high heat as directed.