Description
Craving a burger that’s bursting with flavor and a gooey cheese surprise? Chef John’s Juicy Lucy is a Minnesota classic, featuring a beef patty stuffed with melted Cheddar cheese, seasoned with Worcestershire and spices, and served with classic toppings.
Ingredients
Chef John’s Juicy Lucy uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, cheesy burger. Here’s what you’ll need for 1 serving:
- 6 ounces ground beef: The base for a juicy, flavorful patty.
- 4 drops Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and depth.
- 3 pinches garlic powder: Boosts savory flavor.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper: Provides a subtle spicy kick.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds mild heat.
- Kosher salt, to taste: Enhances overall flavor.
- 1 slice Cheddar cheese: Creates the gooey, melty center.
- 1 hamburger bun, split: Holds the burger together.
- 1 slice tomato: Adds fresh, juicy texture.
- 1 leaf lettuce: Contributes crispness and freshness.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Ground Beef: Ideally 80/20 for a juicy patty; the fat content keeps it moist.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey core, the hallmark of a Juicy Lucy.
- Worcestershire and Spices: Enhance the beef with savory, spicy, and umami notes.
- Bun and Toppings: Provide classic burger balance with soft bread, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for a different flavor.
- Cheese: Swap Cheddar with American, pepper jack, or mozzarella for varied flavor.
- Worcestershire: Replace with soy sauce or omit for a simpler taste.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese; ensure Worcestershire is vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free bun and confirm Worcestershire is gluten-free.
- Spicy Juicy Lucy: Increase cayenne to ¼ teaspoon or add a slice of jalapeño inside the patty.
- Bacon Juicy Lucy: Add a strip of cooked bacon as a topping for extra smokiness
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 6 ounces ground beef, 4 drops Worcestershire sauce, 3 pinches garlic powder, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, black pepper, kosher salt, 1 slice Cheddar cheese, 1 hamburger bun, 1 slice tomato, and 1 leaf lettuce.
- Lightly moisten fingertips with water to handle the beef easily.
Tip: Use cold ground beef to make forming patties easier.
Step 2: Form the Patties
- Divide 6 ounces ground beef into two 3-ounce balls.
- Press each ball into a patty about ¼-inch thick.
- Drop 4 drops Worcestershire sauce over the patties and rub in lightly.
- Sprinkle 3 pinches garlic powder, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, black pepper, and kosher salt on top; rub in gently.
Tip: Keep patties thin to ensure the cheese stays encased and cooks evenly.
Step 3: Stuff with Cheese
- Cut 1 slice Cheddar cheese into a circle using a pastry cutter or the rim of a glass (to fit inside the patty).
- Place the cheese circle on one patty, then cover with the second patty.
- Press the edges carefully to seal, flipping and pressing until fully enclosed.
- Season both sides of the stuffed patty with additional kosher salt.
Tip: Seal edges tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Burger
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat (or preheat a grill to medium-high).
- Cook the patty for 5 minutes per side for medium doneness (about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare).
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Tip: Avoid pressing the patty while cooking to keep the cheese inside and the burger juicy.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Place the cooked patty on the bottom half of the hamburger bun.
- Top with 1 slice tomato, 1 leaf lettuce, and the top bun.
- Serve hot to enjoy the gooey cheese center.
Tip: Let the burger rest for 1-2 minutes before biting to avoid burning your mouth with hot cheese