Cheesy Baked Meat Patties

Juicy, tender meat patties with a molten cheese center, topped with a golden melted blanket of gooey mozzarella or cheddar—baked to perfection in one pan. These stuffed beef (or turkey) patties are packed with savory herbs and seasonings, then finished with a sprinkle of extra cheese for that irresistible cheesy pull. Easy to make, mess-free, and perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding hungry families.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another burger patty—it’s a surprise inside every bite. With a soft, herbed meat exterior hiding a warm, melty cube of cheese at the center—and then crowned with more melted cheese on top—these baked beauties deliver maximum cheesiness without frying. They’re healthier than pan-fried versions, require zero flipping, and come out juicy every time.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep (reheats beautifully)
• Kid-approved meals
• Freezer-friendly comfort food

Ingredients

For the Patties

• 1½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) or mix of beef + turkey or pork
• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced (~½ cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp milk or water (helps keep patties moist)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami depth)
• 1 tsp Dijon or yellow mustard
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or ½ tsp oregano + ½ tsp basil)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (for subtle warmth)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Cheesy Center & Finish

• 6 oz (170g) mozzarella or sharp cheddar, cut into 10–12 small cubes (for stuffing)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (for topping)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl:

• Add ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, seasonings, salt, and pepper.
• Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined.

3. Shape & Stuff the Patties

• Divide mixture into 10–12 equal portions (~¼ cup each).
• Take one portion, flatten it in your palm, place a cheese cube in the center, then fold the meat around it, sealing completely.
• Gently shape into a ½-inch thick patty (~2.5 inches wide).
• Repeat with remaining portions.

4. Arrange on Sheet Pan

• Place patties on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
• Lightly brush the tops with olive oil—this helps them brown evenly.

5. First Bake – Set the Patties

• Bake 12–14 minutes until nearly cooked through and lightly browned.

6. Add the Top Cheese

• Remove tray from oven.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each patty.
• Return to oven and bake 5–8 minutes more, until:
  • Internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)
  • Cheese is fully melted and bubbly

7. Rest & Serve

• Let rest 3 minutes before serving—this allows juices to redistribute and centers to settle.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Serve hot!

You Must Know

• Grate the onion finely —large pieces can cause leaks or uneven texture.
• Use room-temp egg and milk —cold ingredients can affect binding.
• Don’t skip resting —hot cheese filling is lava-level hot!
• Bake on a rack? Yes—for crispier sides, place on a wire rack over the baking sheet.
• No thermometer? Cut one open to check—no pink means done.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes (best texture). Microwave works but may dry out.
• Freeze uncooked stuffed patties: Place on tray, freeze solid, then transfer to bag. Bake from frozen (+5 mins).

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over mashed potatoes with green beans for a classic comfort plate.
• Slide onto toasted buns with pickles, tomato, and burger sauce for gourmet sliders.
• Top pasta or rice with marinara for an Italian twist.
• Pack in meal prep boxes with roasted veggies and salad.

Cultural Context

Inspired by stuffed Serbian pljeskavica, Korean gimbap-style stuffed meats, and American love of cheeseburgers, this recipe blends global comfort into one modern dish. Found at family tables and freezer shelves alike, it honors tradition while embracing convenience—because sometimes, the best meals are the ones that hide a little joy inside.

Pro Tips

• Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for freezing or feeding a crowd.
• Make ahead: Assemble 1–2 days in advance. Refrigerate and bake when ready.
• Want more heat? Add jalapeño bits or cayenne to the meat mix.
• Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
• Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes—but block cheese melts smoother. Avoid “anti-caking” varieties if possible.

Q: Why did my cheese leak out?
A: Likely under-sealed or too much pressure when shaping. Seal tightly and don’t press down while baking.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if using GF breadcrumbs and verifying all ingredient labels.

Q: Can I air fry them?
A: Absolutely! Spray with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 mins, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I make them smaller?
A: Yes! Make mini versions for appetizers—bake 8–10 mins total.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (cheese), eggs, wheat (in most breadcrumbs).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF breadcrumbs.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on Worcestershire sauce and processed meats.

Nutrition Facts (Per Patty – Approximate)

Based on 12 servings

• Calories: 190
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Sodium: 420mg

These patties don’t shout. They emerge golden from the oven, bubbling and fragrant, saying everything a great meal should: “Cut me open. Share me… maybe.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with beef, butter, and someone who says, “Let’s make it unforgettable.”