Cheeseburger Lava Cake Molten Melt
A creative twist on a classic cheeseburger featuring a juicy beef patty encasing a molten, creamy cheese center with a perfectly seared crust for a deliciously indulgent meal.
Equipment
- 1 oven-safe skillet (for searing and baking)
- 1 mixing bowl (for blending ingredients)
- 1 tray (for freezing cheese balls)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3.5 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ounce cream cheese softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- BBQ sauce or ketchup glaze optional
Instructions
- Blend shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth, then shape into 2 to 3 tablespoon balls and freeze until firm.
- Combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl without overmixing.
- Divide the beef mixture into six equal portions and flatten each into thin patties.
- Place a frozen cheese ball in the center of one patty, cover with another patty, then seal edges firmly to form a cake.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear each beef cake for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden-brown crust forms.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Allow beef cakes to rest for several minutes before slicing.
- Optionally brush tops with BBQ sauce or ketchup glaze and serve immediately while cheese center is molten.
Notes
- Freeze cheese balls well to ensure melting center.
- Handle beef gently to keep patties tender.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.