Description
Introducing the Cheeseburger Lava Cake Molten Melt – a delectable fusion of two beloved comfort foods that will leave your taste buds dancing in excitement!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3.5 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- BBQ sauce or ketchup glaze, optional
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the cheese mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and softened cream cheese. Mix well until the ingredients form a smooth, cohesive mixture. Using 2 to 3 tablespoons, scoop out portions of the cheese blend and roll them into small balls. Place these cheese balls on a lined tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Freeze them for about 15 to 20 minutes until they become firm. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that lovely molten center when the beef cakes are cooked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix the ingredients with your hands or a spatula, being careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to a tough texture. Once blended, divide the seasoned beef into six equal portions and flatten each into a thin disk, creating a sturdy base for the gooey center.
- Take one of the beef disks and place a chilled cheese ball in the center. Cover the cheese ball with another beef disk, and firmly seal the edges to enclose the cheese completely. Shape the mixture into a cake-like form, ensuring there are no gaps where the cheese might ooze out during cooking. Repeat with the remaining portions until all the beef is shaped around the cheese.
- Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your oven-safe skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add each beef cake to the skillet without overcrowding. Sear the cakes for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This process is essential as it locks in flavors and adds an appealing texture.
- After searing, transfer the skillet with the cakes to the preheated oven. Bake them for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the beef is cooked through but still moist. After removing from the oven, let the cakes rest for several minutes. This resting time allows the cheese center to settle, preventing a messy presentation when slicing.
Notes
Keep an eye on your cheese balls and do not skip freezing them; this step is vital for the molten lava effect.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Protein: 22 g