Indulge in an elevated burger experience! These juicy patties are generously stuffed with creamy Boursin cheese and infused with a fragrant blend of fresh parsley, dill, and chives. Each gourmet burger is then crowned with a luscious, tangy-sweet honey-mustard sauce, creating a symphony of flavors perfect for your next BBQ.
As the days grow longer and the air warms, there’s an undeniable buzz that signals the arrival of grilling season. For many, this time of year kicks off with Memorial Day, a beloved holiday synonymous with outdoor gatherings, sunshine, and, of course, delicious food. While the anticipation of summer camping trips and lazy afternoons might still feel weeks away in your mind, the reality is that the season for al fresco dining is officially upon us.
If, like me, you find yourself a little behind on holiday menu planning, don’t fret! I’m thrilled to share a burger recipe that’s not just a meal, but an event. This isn’t your average backyard burger; it’s a culinary creation designed to impress, perfect for your Memorial Day BBQ or any summer gathering that calls for something truly special.
Elevate Your Grill Game: Introducing Boursin Cheese-Stuffed Herb Burgers
While I cherish the simplicity of a classic hamburger, there’s an undeniable joy in transforming the familiar into something extraordinary. This recipe takes the humble burger and infuses it with layers of exquisite flavor and texture. We’re not just stuffing these patties with cheese; we’re crafting a gourmet experience from the inside out.
What makes these cheese-stuffed burgers so exceptional? It all starts with the carefully chosen ingredients. The ground beef is mixed with a vibrant medley of fresh herbs—fragrant parsley, delicate dill, and zesty chives—each contributing its unique aromatic note. But the true star, the secret weapon that takes these burgers from great to unforgettable, is the rich, creamy Boursin cheese. Tucked into the heart of each patty, it melts into a decadent, savory core that bursts with flavor in every bite.
The Art of the Perfect Burger: Beyond the Patty
A phenomenal patty deserves an equally phenomenal bun. While these burgers would be magnificent on homemade hamburger buns, don’t hesitate to explore high-quality options from your local bakery. I recently discovered brioche buns at my grocery store, and they were an absolute revelation—soft, slightly sweet, and robust enough to handle the generous fillings of these burgers. The key is to choose a bun that offers both structure and flavor, ensuring it complements the burger without falling apart under its delicious weight. A sturdy bun is crucial for a truly satisfying and mess-free experience.
And speaking of messy, let me assure you, I wholeheartedly devoured every finger-licking, glorious bite of this towering burger. I’ve had comments in the past questioning the eatability of my taller burger creations, and I’m here to confirm: yes, it was gloriously messy, and yes, it required a napkin or two (or three!), but every single morsel was worth it. Embrace the delicious chaos!
Ingredients for an Unforgettable Culinary Experience
Crafting these extraordinary burgers requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The blend of herbs and the signature Boursin cheese are what truly set this recipe apart, while the creamy honey-mustard sauce adds a vibrant, complementary finish.
For the Irresistible Herb-Infused Boursin Burgers
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for optimal juiciness)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds a depth of umami flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 4 oz Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs variety recommended)
- Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling on patties)
For the Creamy Honey-Mustard Sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup sour cream (adds a lovely tang and creaminess)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, for the sauce)
For Serving (Recommended Toppings)
- 4 good quality hamburger buns (brioche or artisan buns are excellent choices)
- Green leaf lettuce
- Sliced English cucumber
- 4 radishes thinly sliced
- Thinly sliced red onion
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Gourmet Burgers
Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly cooked, cheese-stuffed, herb-infused burgers that will be the highlight of any meal.
- Prepare Your Grill: Preheat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Allow it to heat thoroughly, ensuring an even cook and beautiful grill marks.
- Mix the Burger Patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped parsley, dill, chives, and Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper. Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough burgers.
- Form the Stuffed Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal sections. Then, divide each section in half again, creating 8 smaller portions. Flatten each of these 8 portions into a thin, round patty. Take one of the Boursin cheese portions (approximately 1/4 of the 4 oz package) and place it in the center of one thin patty. Top with another thin patty. Carefully pinch and seal the edges all around, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed within the beef. This forms one large, cheese-stuffed patty. Repeat this process for the remaining 3 burgers. Once formed, lightly drizzle each patty with extra-virgin olive oil.
- Grill to Perfection: Place the prepared burgers on the preheated grill. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side for a medium-cooked burger. Adjust cooking time for your desired doneness (less for rare, more for well-done). Once cooked, remove the burgers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Whip Up the Honey-Mustard Sauce: While the burgers are cooking or resting, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Your Burgers: To assemble, place one cooked, cheese-stuffed patty on the bottom half of a hamburger bun. Layer with fresh green leaf lettuce, sliced English cucumber, thinly sliced radishes, and red onion. Spread a generous amount of the creamy honey-mustard sauce on the top half of the bun and place it on top of your burger. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Crafting the Ultimate Stuffed Burger
Achieving burger perfection is all about the details. Here are some extra tips to ensure your Boursin cheese-stuffed herb burgers are a resounding success every time:
- Choose Your Beef Wisely: For juicy burgers, select ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. The fat renders during cooking, keeping the patties moist and flavorful.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the beef and herbs, mix just enough until everything is incorporated. Overworking the meat can lead to a dense, tough burger texture.
- Seal the Cheese Securely: The most crucial step for a stuffed burger is ensuring the cheese is fully encased. Take your time to pinch and seal the edges of the two patties together firmly. This prevents the melted Boursin from oozing out during grilling.
- Chill Your Patties: If you have time, chill the formed patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps them hold their shape better and reduces the risk of cheese leakage.
- Resist Pressing: Avoid pressing down on the burgers with your spatula while they cook. This squeezes out valuable juices and flavor.
- Rest the Burgers: After grilling, let the burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more succulent burger.
- Make Sauce Ahead: The creamy honey-mustard sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This saves time on grilling day!
Flavor Variations to Explore
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, feel free to get creative with these cheese-stuffed herb burgers:
- Cheese Swaps: Experiment with other creamy cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese mixed with herbs, or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
- Herb Combinations: While parsley, dill, and chives are fantastic, try adding fresh thyme, oregano, or a touch of rosemary for different aromatic profiles.
- Spice it Up: For a little heat, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the ground beef mixture or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey-mustard.
- Different Meat Bases: While beef is traditional, this stuffing method would also work wonderfully with ground turkey or a blend of beef and pork.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve Alongside Your Gourmet Burgers
These flavorful burgers deserve equally delicious accompaniments to complete the meal. Consider these popular side dishes for your next cookout:
- Crispy Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: A classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the burger.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and a quintessential summer side.
- Coleslaw or Potato Salad: Creamy and satisfying, these sides are BBQ staples.
- Baked Beans: A hearty and flavorful addition to any cookout spread.
A Closer Look at Boursin Cheese
If you’re new to Boursin, you’re in for a treat. This French cheese is a soft, spreadable delight known for its creamy texture and rich, savory flavors, often infused with garlic, herbs, and spices. The “Garlic & Fine Herbs” variety, used in this recipe, is particularly popular and adds an incredible depth of flavor that complements the beef and fresh herbs beautifully. When melted inside the burger, Boursin creates a luscious, almost molten core that transforms a simple burger into a truly gourmet experience.
Conclusion: Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re gearing up for Memorial Day, planning a summer BBQ, or simply craving an exceptional weeknight meal, these Boursin Cheese-Stuffed Herb Burgers with Creamy Honey-Mustard are guaranteed to be a hit. They offer a delightful twist on a classic, proving that a little creativity and a few quality ingredients can elevate your home cooking to restaurant-worthy levels.
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Recipe Notes:
This recipe has been adapted from Rachael Ray’s Big Orange Book.