Pimento Cheese Burger with Pickled Jalapeños

The Pimento Cheese Burger with Pickled Jalapeños is the ultimate combination of Southern comfort food and bold, tangy heat. Imagine a juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patty, topped with creamy, tangy pimento cheese and the bright kick of pickled jalapeños, sandwiched between a toasted bun. Each bite is a symphony of flavors: rich, cheesy, smoky, and slightly spicy.

This burger elevates a classic Southern favorite—the pimento cheese sandwich—by pairing it with a hearty beef burger. It’s a must-try dish for burger enthusiasts, fans of Southern cuisine, and anyone who loves a little spice with their comfort food. The flavors are bold, the textures contrast beautifully, and it’s guaranteed to impress at your next cookout or weeknight dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fun, flavorful, and indulgent without being overly complicated. The creamy pimento cheese balances the heat of the jalapeños perfectly, while the beef patty remains juicy and satisfying. It’s also a versatile recipe—you can make it as mild or spicy as you like, and the pickled jalapeños add a bright, tangy lift that makes every bite exciting.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Combines Southern classics with a modern burger twist
• Creamy, spicy, tangy, and savory all in one bite
• Perfect for cookouts, casual dinners, or game day
• Easy to assemble but impressive in flavor
• Can be customized for heat, cheese, or toppings

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course / Burger
• Cuisine: Southern / American
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 burgers
• Calories: Approx. 650–700 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Burgers

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 burger buns
• 2 tablespoons butter, for toasting buns

For the Pimento Cheese

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons diced pimentos (from jarred pimentos)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pickled Jalapeños

• ½ cup sliced jalapeños (fresh)
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

• Lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare pickled jalapeños
2. Make pimento cheese
3. Form and season burger patties
4. Cook burgers to desired doneness
5. Assemble burgers

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Pickle the Jalapeños

• Combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan.
• Heat until sugar dissolves, then pour over jalapeño slices in a jar.
• Let sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes (or longer for more flavor).

Step 2: Make the Pimento Cheese

• In a medium bowl, combine cheddar, Monterey Jack, mayonnaise, cream cheese, diced pimentos, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Burger Patties

• Form ground beef into 4 equal patties.
• Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Burgers

• Heat a skillet, grill, or griddle over medium-high heat.
• Cook burgers 4–5 minutes per side for medium (adjust for desired doneness).
• During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a generous scoop of pimento cheese and cover to melt.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

• Spread butter on the cut side of buns.
• Toast in a skillet or oven until golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

• Place cooked burger on toasted bun.
• Add pickled jalapeños and optional toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion).
• Top with the other bun and serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve with crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.
• Offer extra pickled jalapeños or pimento cheese on the side for guests.
• Pair with a cold soda, beer, or iced tea for the full Southern experience.

Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 beef for juiciness; leaner meat can dry out.
• Toasting buns adds flavor and prevents sogginess.
• Make pimento cheese a day ahead to let flavors meld.
• Adjust jalapeño pickling time for desired heat.
• Serve immediately after melting cheese for the best texture.

Variations

Spicy Bacon Pimento Burger

Add crispy bacon slices for extra smoky flavor.

Turkey or Chicken Burger Version

Use ground turkey or chicken; reduce cook time slightly.

Veggie Burger Option

Use a black bean or lentil patty and keep pimento cheese for flavor.

Extra Cheese Lover’s Burger

Add a second cheese layer, such as Pepper Jack or smoked Gouda.

Slider Version

Make mini patties for party sliders.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Pimento cheese can be stored for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Pickled jalapeños last 1–2 weeks in the fridge.

Freezer

• Raw burger patties can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Do not freeze assembled burgers with cheese; melt fresh when ready to serve.

Special Equipment Needed

• Skillet, grill, or griddle
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan (for pickled jalapeños)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

The Pimento Cheese Burger with Pickled Jalapeños is a bold, indulgent, and utterly satisfying burger that takes Southern flavors to the next level. The creamy, tangy cheese, smoky beef, and bright, spicy jalapeños create a flavor combination that’s unforgettable. Perfect for backyard cookouts, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, this burger is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for more.