Mastering the Juicy Lucy Burger: An Iconic Stuffed Cheeseburger Recipe
The Juicy Lucy – often spelled Jucy Lucy – isn’t just a burger; it’s an experience, a delightful twist on a classic cheeseburger. Imagine a thick, perfectly cooked beef patty, but instead of the cheese sitting on top, it’s molten and gooey, hidden deep within the burger itself. Each bite releases an explosion of savory flavor and melted cheese, making it truly unforgettable. This iconic creation features a generous filling of cheese nestled between two lean ground beef patties, served traditionally on a buttery toasted bun with crisp dill pickle slices. It’s a culinary marvel that promises a burst of flavor with every delicious mouthful.
As we embrace the warm weather and longer days here in Nebraska, even before summer officially kicks off, there’s no better way to celebrate than with an exceptional grilled dish. And when it comes to grilling, nothing quite says “summer” like an epic burger. This Juicy Lucy recipe is precisely that – an epic way to kick off your grilling season and impress anyone lucky enough to try it. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a meal al fresco, this burger is guaranteed to be a showstopper.
If the concept of a cheese-stuffed burger is new to you, prepare to have your culinary world rocked! The Juicy Lucy is a game-changer, elevating the humble cheeseburger to new heights of deliciousness. Don’t be intimidated by its unique construction; I’m here to guide you through each step of crafting this famous sandwich. It’s surprisingly straightforward to make, and the results are incredibly rewarding, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Forget your standard patties; this is an innovation in burger making that you simply must try.
This post is proudly sponsored by Nebraska’s own Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment. My enthusiasm for their products and the opinions expressed here are entirely my own, born from years of using and loving this incredible dressing in my kitchen.
SOME OF THE ITEMS BELOW CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS; I AM A PARTICIPANT IN THE AMAZON SERVICES LLC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM, AN AFFILIATE ADVERTISING PROGRAM DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR US TO EARN FEES BY LINKING TO AMAZON.COM AND AFFILIATED SITES. I AM ALSO AN AFFILIATE FOR OTHER BRANDS. HOWEVER, I ONLY PROMOTE THINGS THAT I LOVE AND THINK YOU WILL LOVE, TOO. FOR MY ENTIRE DISCLOSURE POLICY PLEASE CLICK HERE.
When brainstorming ideas for a standout summer grilling recipe to feature Dorothy Lynch, the legendary Juicy Lucy immediately came to mind. It struck me that despite my extensive collection of recipes, this iconic burger had somehow been overlooked. It was high time to rectify that oversight and introduce this masterpiece to my readers, infused with a special ingredient that truly makes it sing. The thought of pairing the richness of a Juicy Lucy with the unique tang of Dorothy Lynch was simply too exciting to pass up.
But true to form, this couldn’t be just any basic Juicy Lucy. Just like all my other cherished Dorothy Lynch recipes, this burger needed to be elevated, transformed into something truly exceptional. The secret? A touch of that beloved sweet and spicy Nebraska favorite dressing, lending a unique depth of flavor and an unexpected zing that sets this burger apart from all others. It infuses the meat with an incredible aroma and a subtle yet distinct taste that you won’t find in any other burger recipe.
What Makes Dorothy Lynch So Special?
Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment is often described as a delightfully sweet and tangy dressing with a rich, creamy texture. Its distinctive reddish-orange hue might lead some to mistakenly categorize it as just another French dressing. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. While some French dressings are sweet, Dorothy Lynch possesses a unique balance of sweetness, acidity, and a hint of spice that is truly its own.
In terms of taste, Dorothy Lynch stands in a league of its own. Unlike oil-based French dressings, Dorothy Lynch is proudly tomato-based, giving it a fresh, vibrant foundation. The most accurate way to describe its flavor is simply: homemade. It carries a comforting, familiar taste that feels like it was crafted in your grandmother’s kitchen, making it a staple in many Midwestern households. It’s a flavor that evokes nostalgia and a sense of tradition, making every dish it touches feel a little more special.
The story of Dorothy Lynch is as heartwarming as its flavor. “The” Dorothy Lynch herself crafted this signature dressing back in the 1940s. She served it with pride at a restaurant she and her husband operated at the local Legion Club in St. Paul, Nebraska. The dressing quickly became a local sensation. Patrons couldn’t get enough of it and would even bring their own bottles to the club, eager to have Dorothy refill them to enjoy her delicious dressing at home. This overwhelming testament to its popularity eventually led to it becoming a commercially available product, bringing that homemade Nebraska taste to tables far and wide. It’s a true American success story born from a beloved family recipe.
Beyond the Salad Bowl: The Incredible Versatility of Dorothy Lynch
While Dorothy Lynch began its journey as a beloved salad dressing, its utility extends far beyond just greens. This dressing is incredibly versatile, quickly becoming a go-to condiment and ingredient in our kitchen. We find ourselves reaching for it constantly, using it in a myriad of creative ways that make meals truly special. It’s a condiment that truly lives up to its “Home Style” name, delivering a comforting and adaptable flavor profile.
It shines brightly as a delectable marinade, infusing meats with its signature sweet and spicy notes, making them tender and flavorful. It also makes an exceptional dip for fresh vegetables, adding a lively kick to healthy snacks. Ever tried it as a pizza dip? It’s a revelation, offering a sweet and tangy counterpoint to savory pizza. Furthermore, Dorothy Lynch is a perfect accompaniment to barbecue dishes, enhancing smoky flavors, and pairs wonderfully with crispy fried chicken, offering a unique sweet-savory balance that is simply addictive. For those with dietary concerns, both Dorothy Lynch Home Style and Dorothy Lynch Light & Lean varieties are certified gluten-free, making them accessible to even more food lovers and expanding their culinary reach.
Incorporating Dorothy Lynch into recipes is where its true magic unfolds. Its distinctive and well-balanced flavor profile has a remarkable ability to elevate countless dishes. In my culinary adventures, it has consistently taken many of my own recipes from good to truly extraordinary, adding that special “something” that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s not just an ingredient; it’s a flavor enhancer that brings a touch of Nebraska charm to any dish.
Unleashing Flavor: Using Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment in Recipes
For decades, Dorothy Lynch has been a secret weapon in my kitchen, bringing a vibrant, unique spice and flavor profile to a wide array of dishes. From savory brunch pies to hearty main courses and, of course, my signature Sloppy Dorothy Sandwich, this versatile dressing consistently adds that special touch that makes recipes truly memorable. Its ability to blend sweet, spicy, and tangy notes seamlessly into different cuisines is what makes it an indispensable ingredient for countless home cooks looking to add a distinctive twist to their meals. It’s more than just a dressing; it’s a culinary muse.
More Dorothy Lynch Recipes from An Affair from the Heart
- Pictured Above: Sloppy Dorothy Sandwiches
- Dorothy’s Cheesy Bacon Pull-Apart Bread
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Dorothy’s Cole Slaw
- Dorothy’s BBQ Pork Chops
- Dorothy’s Impossible Pie with Bacon & Swiss
- Taco Salads with Dorothy’s Homemade Taco Sauce
- Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs (pictured above)
- Dorothy’s Puff Pastry Pizza Pockets
Introducing Dorothy’s Signature Juicy Lucy Burgers
Today, we’re taking the classic Juicy Lucy to the next level by incorporating the unique flavor of Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment. This remarkable ingredient is one of just five simple components you’ll need to create these extraordinary burgers. The essential ingredients for our Dorothy’s Juicy Lucy Burgers include lean ground beef, a robust Montreal Steak Seasoning (for that perfect blend of savory spices), a touch of bread crumbs for texture and moisture retention, the right quality American cheese for that perfect molten core, and, of course, the distinctive Dorothy Lynch dressing to bind and flavor the patties. The synergy of these ingredients creates a burger that is truly a cut above the rest.
I chose to serve my Juicy Lucys on a perfectly buttery grilled bun, adorned simply with crisp dill pickles. The slight crunch and tangy bite of the pickles provide an excellent contrast to the rich, cheesy patty. However, one of the joys of this burger is its adaptability. You are absolutely encouraged to customize your Juicy Lucy with any toppings and condiments your heart desires – from caramelized onions and crispy bacon to a fresh slice of tomato and vibrant lettuce, the possibilities are endless. The star, of course, remains that irresistible, molten cheese core, but the supporting cast can be entirely up to your personal preference.
To begin your Juicy Lucy adventure, gather your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, the savory Montreal Steak Seasoning, the bread crumbs (which play a crucial role in binding the meat and ensuring a juicy texture), and the star ingredient, Dorothy Lynch dressing. Gently mix these ingredients until they are just combined. It’s important to be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can lead to a dense, tough burger. The goal is a uniform mixture that holds together well for forming the patties, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor in every bite.
Chef’s Tip: No bread crumbs on hand? No problem at all! You can easily make your own fresh bread crumbs in minutes. Simply toss a few slices of leftover bread (stale bread works best) or even some homemade croutons into your food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. Even slightly toasted bread works wonderfully to create fresh, flavorful bread crumbs in a pinch, adding a superior quality to your burgers compared to store-bought varieties.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting the Perfect Juicy Lucy Burger
Follow these detailed steps to ensure your Juicy Lucy burgers are perfectly formed and wonderfully juicy with that irresistible melted cheese core:
- **Divide the Meat Mixture:** Begin by dividing your seasoned meat mixture into four equal portions. Each portion is designed to make one substantial half-pound burger. Form each of these four sections into a cohesive, rounded ball.
- **Create Top and Bottom Patties:** Now, take each of those four large balls and divide them again, but with a deliberate unevenness. For each burger, you will form two distinct patties: one slightly larger ball (approximately two-thirds of the meat for that specific burger) which will serve as the bottom layer, and one smaller ball (the remaining one-third) which will form the top layer, perfectly encapsulating the cheese. This size difference is key to creating a well-sealed burger.
- **Forming the Patties:** Place each individual meatball (both larger and smaller ones) between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a flat object, such as the bottom of a dinner plate or a dedicated burger press, gently but firmly press each ball down to flatten it into a uniform patty. Aim for an even thickness, ensuring that the larger bottom patty is slightly wider than the smaller top patty.
- **Position the Cheese Core:** Take the stack of good quality American cheese (each slice cut into four pieces for even distribution) and carefully mound it in the very center of each *larger* patty. It’s crucial to use a high-quality American cheese for its superior melting properties – avoid those ultra-processed singles wrapped in plastic, as they won’t give you the desirable gooey results that are essential for a true Juicy Lucy.
- **Seal the Burger:** Carefully place the *smaller* patty directly on top of the cheese mound on the larger patty. Then, with gentle precision, form and press the edges of the larger, bottom patty up and around the smaller top patty, sealing them together securely. Ensure the edges are completely crimped and sealed all the way around, leaving no gaps. This meticulous sealing is the most critical step to preventing the delicious cheese from escaping during grilling and preserving that irresistible “juicy” core.
- **Prepare for Grilling:** Once all four burgers are perfectly formed and securely sealed, they are ready for the grill. Handle them with care to maintain their shape and integrity before transferring them to the heat.
Carefully place your meticulously crafted patties onto your preheated grill. Grill them at approximately 350°F (175°C) for about 6 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness, typically medium (internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C). It’s important to handle these burgers gently and turn them sparingly. The more you fuss with them, the higher the risk of compromising the seal and letting that precious molten cheese ooze out prematurely. Remember, the goal is to keep them nice and Juicy, Lucy! Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness, ensuring you insert it into the meat and avoid the cheese pocket for an accurate reading.
These aren’t your average slider-sized patties. Each of these glorious creations weighs in at a little over a half-pound, accounting for the delicious addition of the cheese. They are substantial, satisfying burgers designed to make a statement and fully satisfy your hunger, making them perfect for a hearty meal or a special occasion.
Once grilled to perfection, serve your magnificent Juicy Lucy Burgers on a warm, buttery toasted bun. The slight crunch and richness of the bun perfectly complement the juicy patty and melted cheese, providing an ideal textural balance. For a classic touch, I generously topped mine with refreshing dill pickle slices, adding a delightful tang and crunch that cuts through the richness. And, of course, no Dorothy’s Juicy Lucy would be complete without offering extra Dorothy Lynch dressing on the side for dipping – it’s an absolute must for enhancing every bite and truly bringing out the unique flavors of this Nebraska-inspired burger!
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible Juicy Lucy recipe slip away into the depths of your browser history! Make sure to save these mouth-watering burgers to your favorite Pinterest board right now. You’ll be incredibly grateful you did when that next burger craving hits, and you’re ready to whip up this masterpiece. It’s the perfect way to keep your go-to grilling recipes organized and accessible whenever inspiration strikes!
The Intriguing History of the Juicy Lucy Burger
Much like the spirited debates surrounding the origin of the famous Reuben Sandwich – which we Nebraskans proudly claim originated in Omaha, rather than New York City – the Juicy Lucy burger also has a fascinating, contested history. Two establishments fiercely claim to have invented this cheese-stuffed marvel. Coincidentally, both are located on the same street in Minneapolis, Minnesota, just about three miles apart, adding to the local rivalry and charm of its origin story that has captivated foodies for decades.
**Matt’s Bar** is one of the primary contenders, asserting that its original owner created the Juicy Lucy back in the 1950s. Their claim includes a playful twist on the name, intentionally dropping the “i” from “Juicy” to call it the “Jucy Lucy.” The popular, oft-repeated story goes that a loyal customer took a bite of this novel burger, and in a moment of pure culinary delight and surprise, exclaimed, “Oooooh! That’s one Juicy Lucy!” – and thus, the legend was born, and the uniquely spelled name stuck, forever cementing its place in burger lore.
The other prominent claimant is **The 5-8 Club**. While this establishment has a rich history dating back to the speakeasy days of the 1920s, the precise historical evidence for *when* they claim to have conceived the Juicy Lucy is less clear or widely publicized. However, they continue to serve their version with pride, contributing to the burger’s legendary status. Regardless of which bar truly holds the bragging rights for its invention, their enduring presence and the widespread popularity of the Juicy Lucy in Minneapolis have firmly cemented its status as a local icon and a must-try for any visitor.
At this point in culinary history, the exact origin matters less than the delicious innovation itself. We can all universally agree and be profoundly grateful that *somebody*, somewhere in Minneapolis, had the brilliant idea of inventing a burger with a perfectly melted, gooey core of cheese. It’s a testament to simple culinary genius that continues to bring joy to burger lovers everywhere, proving that sometimes, the best ideas are the ones that turn traditions inside out.
If you, like me, appreciate a truly exceptional burger experience, then I have no doubt that these homemade Juicy Lucys will quickly ascend to the very top of your list of favorites. The irresistible combination of succulent beef, molten cheese that bursts forth with every bite, and that special Dorothy Lynch kick is simply irresistible and profoundly satisfying. When you get a chance to try making one (or several!) for yourself, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, your photos, and any modifications you make – let’s celebrate this incredible burger together and inspire other home cooks!
Where Can You Find Your Own Bottle of Dorothy Lynch?
Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment is a cherished Nebraska classic, and its popularity is growing rapidly across the nation! You can often find it at many locally-owned shops across Nebraska, supporting local businesses, as well as in select grocery stores nationwide, including major chains like Walmart and Hy-Vee. Keep an eye out for its distinctive bottle in the salad dressing or condiment aisles during your next shopping trip!
If you’re having trouble locating it in your local stores, don’t fret! It’s incredibly easy to keep your pantry well-stocked with Dorothy Lynch by shopping online. You can purchase it directly from Buy Nebraska, through Amazon for convenient delivery right to your door, or directly from the official Dorothy Lynch website. The website is also a fantastic resource for discovering even more great recipes and innovative ways to use this versatile dressing, providing endless culinary inspiration!
To stay updated on new recipes and culinary inspiration throughout the year, be sure to follow Dorothy Lynch on their official website, and connect with them on social media via their Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter accounts. You’ll find a wealth of delicious ideas to incorporate this unique dressing into your everyday cooking, making every meal an affair to remember.
Looking for more? Explore my other burger recipes and a variety of grilling recipes while you’re here! Discover new favorites to add to your culinary repertoire.
Ready to ignite your grill and craft these incredible, cheese-stuffed Juicy Lucy Burgers? Let’s get cooking and bring a taste of Minnesota (with a Nebraska twist!) to your table! 
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Juicy Lucy Burger (Jucy Lucy)
15 mins
15 mins
30 mins
Sandwiches
American
Burger, Dorothy Lynch, inside out cheeseburger, Jucy Lucy, Juicy Lucy, the Best Juicy Lucy burger recipe, What is a Jucy Lucy? Cheese Stuffed burger
4 burgers
896kcal
Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
-
Dorothy Lynch Home Style Salad Dressing
-
Thermapen Mk4 Instant-read Thermometer
Prevent your screen from going dark
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 Tablespoon Montreal Steak Seasoning
- ¼ cup Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment
- 7 slices good quality yellow American cheese each slice cut into 4 pieces and divided evenly into 4 stacks.
- Dill pickle slices and toasted hamburger buns for serving.
Instructions
-
Combine ground beef, steak seasoning, bread crumbs and Dorothy Lynch in a bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
-
To ensure uniform patties, divide the total meat mixture in half, then divide each half again, resulting in 4 equal portions. Each portion is approximately a half-pound. Next, for each of these 4 portions, divide it into two smaller balls: one slightly larger (about ⅔ of the portion) and one smaller (about ⅓). You will now have 8 meatballs in total – 4 larger and 4 smaller.
-
Place each meatball (both large and small) between two pieces of parchment paper. Using a flat object, such as the bottom of a dinner plate or a dedicated burger press, firmly press each ball to flatten it into an even patty.
-
Arrange the pre-cut cheese squares in the center of each *larger* patty, stacking them slightly higher in the middle to create a distinct cheese core.
-
Carefully cover the cheese stack with the *smaller* patty. Then, meticulously fold the edges of the larger, bottom patty up and over the smaller top patty, pressing firmly to seal the edges together. It’s crucial to seal them tightly to prevent the cheese from escaping during cooking.
-
Preheat your grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Place the formed burgers on the hot grill and cook for approximately 6 minutes on each side. To ensure safety and desired doneness (medium), use an instant-read thermometer like a Thermapen Mk4 to check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71°C). Be sure to insert the thermometer into the meat, avoiding the cheese pocket, for an accurate reading.
-
While the burgers are grilling, butter the inside surfaces of your hamburger buns. Toast them on a hot skillet, griddle, or directly on the grill until golden brown and slightly crispy.
-
Serve your magnificent Juicy Lucy Burgers immediately on the toasted buns, accompanied by crisp dill pickle slices and, if desired, a side of Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing for an extra flavor boost.