Smoky Pesto Cheeseburgers

Fire up your taste buds with these irresistible Smoky Pesto Cheeseburgers! Juicy ground beef patties are perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika for a subtle kick of smoky flavor, then crowned with gooey melted cheese of your choice—cheddar, gouda, or Swiss. A vibrant spread of basil pesto adds an herby, garlicky zing, while fresh toppings like peppery arugula, ripe tomatoes, and optional red onion slices deliver a delightful crunch. Toasted buttered burger buns provide the perfect golden finish, making every bite abundantly satisfying. Ready in just 35 minutes, these gourmet-inspired cheeseburgers are ideal for backyard barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving elevated comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Smoked paprika
• 0.25 cup Basil pesto
• 4 pieces Cheese slices (cheddar, gouda, or Swiss)
• 4 pieces Burger buns
• 4 leaves Arugula or lettuce leaves
• 4 slices Tomato slices
• 4 slices Red onion slices (optional)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 tbsp Vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 2

Divide the seasoned beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. Use your thumb to make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.

Step 3

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the burger patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or adjust the time to your preferred level of doneness.

Step 4

During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, cover the skillet (or close the grill lid), and allow the cheese to melt.

Step 5

While the patties are cooking, split the burger buns and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast the buns in a separate skillet or on the grill until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

To assemble the burgers, spread a generous spoonful of basil pesto on the bottom half of each toasted bun.

Step 7

Place a cheese-covered patty on top of the pesto, followed by a leaf of arugula or lettuce, a slice of tomato, and a slice of red onion (if using).

Step 8

Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately, accompanied by your favorite sides.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(993.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2685.4

Total Fat 195.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 79.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 9.1g
Cholesterol 513.3mg	0%
Sodium 4650.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 100.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.6g	0%
Total Sugars 16.2g
Protein 125.7g	0%

Vitamin D 56.6IU	0%
Calcium 1298.5mg	0%
Iron 16.3mg	0%
Potassium 1737.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 66.0%

Protein: 18.9%

Carbs: 15.1%