Blue Cheese Stuffed Burger with Fig Jam

Get ready for a burger that’s about to rock your world! This isn’t your average cheeseburger – we’re talking about a perfectly seasoned beef patty with a molten blue cheese center, crowned with sweet and tangy fig jam that’ll make your taste buds dance.

The magic happens when that creamy, sharp Gorgonzola meets our secret weapon: fig jam. It’s that unexpected sweet-savory combo that transforms this from just dinner into a gourmet experience you’d expect at a fancy restaurant. Trust me, once you try this pairing, regular burgers will never be the same.

Ingredients

For the Burger:

• 1/2 pound 85% lean ground beef
• 1 Tablespoon Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Assembly:

• 2-3 Tablespoons fig jam
• 1 artisanal burger bun
• Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)
• Ripe tomato slices (optional)

Steps

1. Divide the ground beef into two equal 1/4-pound portions. Using slightly damp hands (prevents sticking), pat each portion into a very thin patty about 5 inches in diameter. The thinner you make them, the better they’ll seal.
2. Place the 1 Tablespoon of Gorgonzola in the center of one patty, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. The border is crucial for proper sealing.
3. Carefully place the second patty on top. Using your fingers, firmly pinch and seal the edges together completely. Create a slight dimple in the center with your thumb to prevent the burger from puffing up during cooking.
4. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat (around 400°F/204°C). Grill for 6-7 minutes per side for medium doneness. Avoid pressing the burger to prevent cheese from leaking.
6. During the last minute of cooking, spread 2-3 Tablespoons of fig jam on the top bun. The residual heat will slightly warm the jam, making it perfectly spreadable. Assemble with lettuce and tomato if desired.

Smart Swaps

• Substitute Gorgonzola with Danish blue cheese for a milder flavor
• Use honey instead of fig jam (use 1.5 Tablespoons)
• Try ground turkey for a lighter option (cook to 165°F/74°C internal temperature)

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

• Use a low-carb bun (reduces carbs by 30g per serving)
• Replace fig jam with sugar-free fig spread (reduces carbs by 15g)
• Serve open-faced to halve the bread portion
• Pair with a side salad instead of fries to lower glycemic impact

Pro Tips

• Let the burger rest for 5 minutes after cooking to prevent cheese from oozing out
• For best results, use room temperature cheese for even melting
• Don’t overwork the meat when forming patties – this keeps them tender