The Juicy Lucy is another twist on the classic American hamburger that was created in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Born in the 1950s, this innovative burger basically takes a cheeseburger and turns it inside out. Instead of topping the patty with cheese, the Juicy Lucy hides a molten cheese core within the beef, resulting in a gooey, cheesy surprise. This unique burger has become a local legend, sparking friendly rivalry between two Minneapolis establishments, each claiming to be its true inventor.

Arden, a subscriber born and raised in the Midwest and currently living in Minneapolis, submitted this iconic dish. She describes how the cheese-stuffed patty creates a juicier, more flavorful burger that often requires fewer toppings than its traditional counterpart. Arden’s personal favorite uses blue cheese, which she says pairs perfectly with the beef.

To create your own Juicy Lucy, start by dividing your seasoned ground beef into eight thin patties. Place cheese (traditionally American cheese slices, but feel free to experiment) in the center of one patty, then top it with another patty, sealing the edges to trap the cheese inside. Caramelize onions in butter for a sweet, savory topping. Cook the stuffed patties in a hot skillet, to develop a nice sear on each side. Be patient and resist the urge to cut into them too soon. You want that cheese to stay inside! Toast your buns in the same pan, then assemble your burger with pickles and caramelized onions.

This is a good burger! The burger itself is massive and the blue cheese gave it such a deliciously strong, stinky flavor that paired perfectly with the beef. Even though some cheese escaped during cooking, it didn’t matter. The inside was still wonderfully gooey. The pickles added a bright contrast, while the caramelized onions brought a lovely sweetness. I was surprised to find it didn’t need any extra sauce. The simple salt and pepper seasoning allowed for a great sear, creating a flavorful crust. Stuffing a burger is brilliant and the name “Juicy Lucy ” couldn’t be more fitting for this cheesy, deliciousness. It’s an easy-to-make burger that packs a punch!