Cheeseburger Lava Cake Molten Melt (Printable Version)

Juicy beef hides molten cheese, baked golden and melty for a comfort food explosion.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beef Patties

01 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Cheese Lava Center

07 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
08 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

→ Assembly

10 - 2 tablespoons butter
11 - BBQ sauce or ketchup, for glazing (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Blend cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until well combined. Shape into 2 to 3 tablespoon-sized balls and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes, until firm.
02 - Combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just integrated.
03 - Divide the seasoned beef into 6 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disc. Place a frozen cheese ball in the center of one disc, then cover with another. Pinch the edges securely to seal. Repeat for all portions.
04 - Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed patty for 2 to 3 minutes per side, achieving a deep golden crust.
05 - Place the skillet in a preheated 375°F oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until beef is cooked through and cheese center remains molten.
06 - Let patties rest for several minutes. Optionally brush with BBQ sauce or ketchup before slicing and serving to reveal the melted cheese center.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Chilling cheese filling before assembly helps maintain a molten center after baking.