A Juicy Lucy burger is the ultimate cheeseburger, originating in Minnesota. It’s made from two thin hamburger patties sealed around a center of melting cheese and grilled until the patties are browned and the cheese inside becomes delightfully gooey. If you want to elevate your usual cheeseburger, this recipe is a must-try.
Is there such a thing as too much cheese on a burger? Probably not — and the Juicy Lucy proves that. Serve it alongside grilled sweet potato fries or your favorite side for a satisfying meal.
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What is a Juicy Lucy?
Simply put, a Juicy Lucy is a stuffed burger with the cheese tucked inside the patty instead of melted on top. When cooked, the cheese melts into a molten center that oozes when you bite into it.
Who Made The First Juicy Lucy?
The Juicy Lucy was invented in Minneapolis and two bars — Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club — both claim to be the origin. The rivalry over which spot created it first is a fun part of the burger’s history. Notably, Matt’s Bar spells it “Jucy Lucy” without the “i.”
Why Is It Called A Juicy Lucy?
The name likely came from an enthusiastic customer exclaiming “that’s a juicy Lucy!” when biting into the hot, cheesy center. Whatever the origin, the name fits — the burger’s molten cheese center makes it especially juicy and memorable.
These burgers are simple to make but make an impressive presentation when the melted cheese spills from the center.
Ingredients Needed For A Juicy Lucys
- Ground beef – Choose a blend with 15–20% fat so the patties stay juicy. Avoid very lean beef for this recipe.
- Worcestershire sauce – Adds a touch of savory, tangy depth to the meat.
- Seasonings – Garlic salt and black pepper are all you need for classic flavor.
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese – Grate from a block for the best melting texture; cut into thin squares or rectangles to fit inside the patties.
How to Make a Juicy Lucy Burger
- Make Beef Patties – In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and black pepper. Mix gently and divide into eight thin patties, each slightly larger than a slice of cheese.
- Assemble the Burgers – Place a portion of cheese on four of the patties, then top each with another patty. Pinch and seal the edges tightly so the cheese stays enclosed while cooking.
- Grill or Pan-Cook – Preheat your grill, cast-iron skillet, or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the burgers until well browned on the first side, about 4 minutes. Because the cheese melts and creates steam, patties may puff up; prick the top to release steam if needed. Flip and cook until the exterior is browned and the meat is cooked through, about 4 more minutes.
Important: let the burgers rest a few minutes after cooking so the molten cheese cools slightly and won’t scald your mouth when you take the first bite.
Burger Topping Ideas
The Juicy Lucy is delicious on its own, but here are optional toppings if you want to build a larger burger:
- Sliced jalapeños for heat.
- Caramelized onions for sweetness and depth.
- Sautéed mushrooms for an earthy note.
- Classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, or mayo.
What Tools Do I Need?
Aside from mixing bowls and a spatula, a cast-iron skillet, grill, or grill pan is ideal to get a good sear on the burgers.
What other kinds of cheese can I use?
Use any cheese that melts well. Sharp cheddar is classic, but American, pepper jack, gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work beautifully — try different varieties to find your favorite.
What If My Burger Puffs Up When Cooking?
If patties puff while cooking, press a shallow thumbprint into the center of each raw patty before cooking. This small indentation helps them stay flat as they cook.
If you want to step up your burger game, try this stuffed cheeseburger. Each bite delivers molten, melty cheese and rich beefy flavor — a true crowd-pleaser.
More Burger Recipes!
After you try the Juicy Lucy, explore more burger variations to keep things interesting.
- Egg Burger
- The BEST Hamburger
- Taco Burger
- Cheeseburger Hobo Packets
Did you make this? If you snap a photo, tag me on Instagram at @gimmesomegrilling or use #gimmesomegrilling so I can see your grilling creations!
Juicy Lucy Burger
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 15-20% fat content recommended
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese cut into thin squares or rectangles
- 4 hamburger buns split, buttered and toasted
Instructions
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Combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and pepper in a large bowl; mix gently to combine. Form 8 thin patties from the beef, each slightly larger than a slice of cheese.
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Divide the cheese among 4 patties. Top each with a second patty, pinching the edges tightly to seal so the cheese stays inside while cooking.
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Preheat a grill or a heavy skillet over medium heat. Cook the burgers until well browned on the first side, about 4 minutes. Prick the top if burgers puff up to release steam, flip and cook until browned and cooked through, about 4 more minutes. Serve on toasted hamburger buns.
Tips
Any good melting cheese will work. Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with American, pepper jack, gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
What if my burger puffs up when cooking?
To prevent puffing, press a shallow thumbprint into the center of each raw patty before cooking to help them stay flat.
Nutrition Information
We are not dietitians and recommend consulting a nutritionist for exact nutritional information. The nutrition numbers are calculated by a program and may vary. For precise values, run the ingredients through your preferred nutrition calculator.