Stuffed Beef and Cheddar Burgers

These juicy burgers hold a melted cheese surprise for each satisfying mouthful. Serve with lettuce and bacon or your favourite toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) water
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) dry breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 tsp (10 mL) Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1 mL) pepper
• 1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) shredded aged cheddar cheese
• 4 hamburger buns

Preparation

In large bowl, beat egg with water; stir in bread crumbs, onion, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt and pepper. Add beef; mix just until combined.

Divide into quarters; shape into balls. With finger, make well in each ball; place one-quarter of the cheese in well. Press meat over to enclose cheese. Press into four 3/4-inch (2 cm) thick patties. (Make-ahead: Layer between waxed paper in airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator.)

Place patties on greased grill over medium heat; close lid and grill, turning once, until digital thermometer inserted sideways into centre reads 160°F (71°C), 12 to 14 minutes. Serve on buns.

Additional information : Variations
Pork and Feta-Stuffed Burgers: Replace beef with pork; thyme with oregano; and Cheddar with crumbled feta. Top with sliced tomato and cucumber.

Chicken and Havarti-Stuffed Burgers: Replace beef with chicken or turkey, cooking to internal temperature of 175°F (80°C). Replace thyme with Italian herb seasoning; and Cheddar with tomato-basil Havarti cheese. Top with sliced tomato and fresh basil leaves.

Source : Canadian Living Magazine: June 2007

author : http://allrecipes.com