Stuffed Burgers with Gorgonzola Aioli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes
I absolutely love making stuffed burgers because they elevate the classic grill experience to something extraordinary. When we create a burger stuffed with Gorgonzola cheese and pair it with a creamy aioli, it becomes a flavor explosion with each bite. The combination of savory beef and bold cheese truly transforms this dish into a gourmet delight. Plus, I love how simple it is to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend grilling parties. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
When I first made stuffed burgers, I was amazed by the delicious surprise hidden inside. The Gorgonzola cheese melts perfectly as the burgers cook, creating a rich and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the juicy beef. I also learned that sealing the burgers correctly is key to getting that ooey-gooey center without any leaks.
One time, I added roasted garlic to the aioli, which kicked the flavor up a notch. It was a game changer! This simple addition gave the sauce a depth that complemented the burgers wonderfully. I can't wait for you to try it and let me know what you think!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy burgers filled with creamy, tangy Gorgonzola
- The homemade aioli adds a gourmet touch
- Perfect for impressing guests at summer barbecues
Elevating Your Burger Game
Stuffed burgers offer a creative twist on the classic beef patty. By hollowing out the center of the patty and filling it with Gorgonzola cheese, you ensure that each bite bursts with savory flavor. The tangy profile of Gorgonzola not only complements the beef beautifully but also provides a creamy texture that contrasts with the grilled exterior. For best results, consider forming the patties slightly thicker along the edges to better contain the stuffing.
Grilling these burgers can lead to a smoky flavor that's hard to resist. Aim for a medium-high heat on your grill or skillet, as this will help you achieve golden, crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy. To avoid flare-ups, ensure that excess fat is trimmed from the patties, and keep an eye on them as they cook. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 160°F is ideal for ground beef.
Perfecting the Gorgonzola Aioli
Aioli adds a luxurious touch to your stuffed burgers. The combination of creamy mayonnaise and crumbly Gorgonzola creates a smooth sauce with complex flavors. Be sure to mix the aioli thoroughly until glossy and uniform; lumps of cheese will break the texture. The addition of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also balances the richness of the cheese, making it a delightful condiment that won’t overshadow the burger itself.
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy, lower-fat aioli. Just remember, this will alter the creaminess and flavor profile, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. If you're a fan of spicy flavors, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the aioli even further.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns
For the Gorgonzola Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Aioli
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed and set aside.
Form the Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide the mixture into eight equal portions and flatten each portion into a patty.
Stuff the Patties
Place a tablespoon of crumbled Gorgonzola in the center of four of the patties. Top with the remaining patties and seal the edges tightly.
Cook the Burgers
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
Assemble and Serve
Place the cooked patties on burger buns, add a generous dollop of Gorgonzola aioli, and any additional toppings you prefer. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions as toppings for your stuffed burgers.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're planning a gathering, prep can save you time on the day of the event. You can form the burger patties and stuff them with Gorgonzola up to a day in advance. Just place them in an airtight container with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking. When you're ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
The aioli can also be made ahead of time. In fact, letting it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give it a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed, since flavors can amplify as it sits.
Serving Ideas
Complement your stuffed burgers with a variety of toppings to create a personalized experience for guests. Consider adding fresh arugula for a peppery bite, sliced tomatoes for freshness, or pickled red onions for a tangy crunch. Each of these toppings pairs well with the rich Gorgonzola flavor, enhancing the overall burger experience.
Don’t forget about side dishes! Sweet potato fries or a crisp coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy burgers. These sides are easy to prepare and can be made simultaneously while your burgers are on the grill, making for a complete meal without too much hassle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works great for these stuffed burgers, though they may cook faster.
→ What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to try other cheeses like feta or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
→ Can I make the aioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the aioli a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ How do I ensure the burgers do not fall apart?
Make sure to keep the beef mixture well-blended and form the patties gently to maintain their shape.
Stuffed Burgers with Gorgonzola Aioli
I absolutely love making stuffed burgers because they elevate the classic grill experience to something extraordinary. When we create a burger stuffed with Gorgonzola cheese and pair it with a creamy aioli, it becomes a flavor explosion with each bite. The combination of savory beef and bold cheese truly transforms this dish into a gourmet delight. Plus, I love how simple it is to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend grilling parties. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns
For the Gorgonzola Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide the mixture into eight equal portions and flatten each portion into a patty.
Place a tablespoon of crumbled Gorgonzola in the center of four of the patties. Top with the remaining patties and seal the edges tightly.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
Place the cooked patties on burger buns, add a generous dollop of Gorgonzola aioli, and any additional toppings you prefer. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions as toppings for your stuffed burgers.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Total Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g