Gourmet Cheesy Mushroom Stuffed Burgers

1.Prepare the Mushroom Filling: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and minced onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are deeply browned.

2.Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool completely (about 10 minutes).

3.Once cooled, transfer the mushroom mixture to a bowl and stir in the shredded Swiss or Provolone cheese until well combined. This is your stuffing.

4.Prepare the Beef Patties: In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with the Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Do not overmix.

5.Form the Patties: Divide the seasoned beef into 8 equal portions. Form each portion into a thin, flat patty, approximately 1 cm thick and slightly wider than your bun (about 10 cm diameter).

6.Stuff the Burgers: Take one thin patty and place 2-3 tablespoons of the mushroom and cheese filling in the center, leaving a 1 cm border around the edge. Place a second thin patty directly on top of the filling.

7.Carefully pinch and seal the edges of the two patties together, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed. Repeat with the remaining beef and filling to create 4 stuffed burgers.

8.Cook the Burgers: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C) or heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or skillet.

9.Place the stuffed burgers on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temperature of 70°C), or adjust time based on desired doneness. Avoid pressing down on the burgers, as this can cause the filling to leak.

10.Toast the Buns: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, lightly butter the cut sides of the burger buns and toast them on the grill or in the skillet until golden brown.

11.Assemble and Serve: Spread your preferred condiments on the toasted buns. Place a cooked stuffed burger on the bottom bun, top with a slice of tomato and a leaf of lettuce, and cover with the top bun. Serve immediately.