🧀 High-Protein Cheddar-Stuffed Cheeseburgers
Makes: 4 burgers
Protein: ~35–45g per burger (depending on meat & cheese)
Low-carb & keto-friendly
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1½ lb lean ground beef (93/7 or 90/10 for higher protein)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Cheese Filling
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes or thick shreds
(sharp cheddar = more flavor, less needed)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp finely minced onion or chives
Instructions
- Prepare patties
Divide ground beef into 8 thin patties (about equal size). Season both sides. - Add cheese
Place cheddar cubes in the center of 4 patties, keeping cheese away from edges. - Seal burgers
Top with remaining patties and firmly pinch edges shut so cheese won’t leak. - Cook
- Skillet: Medium heat, 4–5 min per side
- Grill: Medium-high heat, 4–5 min per side
- Air Fryer: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway
- Rest 3 minutes before serving (keeps cheese inside).
High-Protein Serving Ideas
- Lettuce wrap or high-protein bun
- Add a fried egg for extra protein
- Serve with Greek yogurt–based burger sauce
- Pair with roasted veggies or air-fried potatoes
Nutrition (Approx. per burger)
- Calories: 380–450
- Protein: 38–45g
- Fat: 20–24g
- Carbs: 2–5g (without bun)
Protein Boost Options
- Swap half the beef for 93% lean ground turkey
- Mix in egg whites (2–3 tbsp) per patty
- Use extra-sharp or reduced-fat cheddar
If you want, I can also give you:
- A meal-prep version
- Macro-tracked recipe
- Smash-style stuffed burgers
- BBQ or jalapeño cheddar variation
