Introduction

These Iowa beef burgers are stuffed with gooey cheddar cheese and grilled to a perfect sear on the Arteflame grill. The high-heat center grill grate locks in juices, while the flat cooktop ensures even cooking. The result? Juicy, cheesy burgers packed with incredible flavor and a perfect golden-brown crust. Master the reverse-searing method on the Arteflame for the ultimate grilled burger experience.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 4 burger buns
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the Arteflame reaches ideal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. Divide the ground beef into eight equal balls.
2. Form each ball into a thin patty.
3. Place a spoonful of shredded cheddar in the center of four patties.
4. Cover with the remaining patties and pinch the edges to seal, ensuring no cheese leaks out.
5. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Sear the Burgers on the Center Grill Grate

1. Place the burgers on the center grill grate at 1,000°F for 1-2 minutes per side to achieve a steakhouse-quality crust.

Step 4: Cook on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the burgers to the flat cooktop griddle near the center where the heat is intense but controlled.
2. Cook for another 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (for medium doneness).

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. Butter the burger buns generously.
2. Place them on the flat cooktop to toast until golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Remove the burgers when the internal temperature is 15°F below your desired level (they will continue cooking).
2. Place on a toasted bun and add desired toppings.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite side.

Tips

• Use high-quality cheddar for a more intense flavor.
• Ensure a tight seal around the cheese to prevent leakage.
• Monitor the heat zones on the Arteflame for precise cooking.
• Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese to the burger stuffing for a spicy kick.
2. BBQ Bacon: Mix in crispy bacon bits and barbecue sauce for a smoky, savory flavor.
3. Mushroom Swiss: Stuff with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an umami-packed burger.
4. Blue Cheese Delight: Replace cheddar with crumbled blue cheese for bold, tangy flavors.
5. Tex-Mex: Stuff with a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and taco seasoning for a south-of-the-border twist.

Conclusion

Mastering these Iowa-style grilled cheese-stuffed burgers on the Arteflame guarantees a deliciously juicy result with a perfect crust. Using the high-heat sear method followed by the flat cooktop makes every bite incredibly flavorful. These burgers are a sure hit at any cookout! Enjoy grilling and impress everyone with the best-tasting stuffed burgers ever.

Best pairings

• Grilled sweet potatoes
• Crispy onion rings
• Homemade coleslaw
• Garlic butter corn on the cob
• Refreshing iced tea or craft beer