This recipe is my rich and playful twist on the classic cheeseburger. I season ground beef, shape it into thick patties, and hide cubes of cheddar inside so the center melts into a gooey “lava” when cut open. It’s simple to prepare yet feels like a special, indulgent treat.
Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it turns everyday ingredients into something creative and fun. The beef stays juicy, the spices deepen the flavor, and the molten cheese center transforms each bite into a creamy, melty surprise. It’s the kind of dish I enjoy making when I want comfort food with a twist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
450 g ground beef
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 cubes cheddar cheese (about 2–3 cm each for the molten centers)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
Combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Mix until evenly seasoned.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten 4 of them into patties.
Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened patty.
Flatten the remaining 4 portions and place each on top of a cheese-filled patty. Press and seal the edges carefully to keep the cheese enclosed.
Transfer the assembled lava cakes to a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking tray.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the outside is nicely browned.
Serve immediately to enjoy the molten cheese center at its best.
Servings And Timing
Servings: 4 cheeseburger lava cakes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Variations
Use different cheeses: mozzarella for a stretchy center, pepper jack for a mild kick, or Gouda for a smoother melt.
Adjust seasoning: add black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, or dried herbs for a customized flavor.
Make smaller portions: shape mini lava cakes for sliders or appetizers.
Storage/Reheating
I let the leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 8–10 minutes so the cheese softens again. Microwaving is quick but may cause the cheese to thicken instead of melting.
FAQs
Can I use leaner beef?
Yes, but I find that beef with a bit more fat keeps the lava cakes juicier and more tender.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while baking?
I make sure the edges are sealed tightly by pressing them firmly and smoothing the seams.
Can I pan-fry these instead of baking?
I can, but baking provides more even heat and reduces the chance of cheese leaking out.
What can I serve with these lava cakes?
I like pairing them with fries, roasted potatoes, a crisp salad, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. I assemble the lava cakes and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. They hold their shape well and cook beautifully.
Conclusion
This Cheeseburger Lava Cake Molten Melt is one of my favorite ways to elevate simple ingredients into something exciting and comforting. I love the juicy beef, the warm spices, and the dramatic molten cheese center. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect whenever I want a delicious twist on a classic burger.
A rich and playful twist on the classic cheeseburger featuring seasoned ground beef patties stuffed with molten cheddar cheese for a gooey, indulgent center.
Ingredients
450 g ground beef
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 cubes cheddar cheese (about 2–3 cm each for the molten centers)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
Combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Mix until evenly seasoned.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten 4 of them into patties.
Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened patty.
Flatten the remaining 4 portions and place each on top of a cheese-filled patty. Press and seal the edges carefully to keep the cheese enclosed.
Transfer the assembled lava cakes to a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking tray.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the outside is nicely browned.
Serve immediately to enjoy the molten cheese center at its best.
Notes
Seal the edges well to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
Let the lava cakes rest for a few minutes before cutting to retain juiciness.
Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Use different cheeses or seasonings to customize the flavor.
