Golden, fluffy buns filled with juicy ground beef and oozing melted cheddar, these cheeseburger stuffed buns are the perfect fusion of comfort food and bite-sized convenience. They offer all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, tucked neatly into a handheld bun. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply a fun twist on weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheeseburger stuffed buns are a crowd-pleaser that combine soft, freshly baked bread with a flavorful beef and cheese filling. They’re perfect for on-the-go meals, lunchboxes, or entertaining guests. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how versatile they can be with different fillings and toppings. They’re also freezer-friendly and reheat beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
sugar
instant yeast
salt
warm milk
egg
unsalted butter, softened
olive oil (for sautéing)
small onion, finely chopped
garlic clove, minced
ground beef
Worcestershire sauce
salt and black pepper
shredded cheddar cheese
egg yolk + milk (for egg wash)
sesame seeds and chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
Add warm milk, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté for 2 minutes.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cool, then mix in shredded cheddar cheese.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece and fill with 2 tablespoons of the beef-cheese mixture. Seal the edges and shape into a ball.
Place buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each bun with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 stuffed buns and takes approximately 2 hours total, including rising time. Active prep and cooking time is about 40 minutes.

Variations

Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Cheese swap: Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or provolone for a different cheese profile.
Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms.
Mini sliders: Make smaller portions for bite-sized appetizers.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cheeseburger stuffed buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

What type of flour should I use?

All-purpose flour works best, but you can also use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.

Can I make these buns ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead and refrigerate before baking. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Ensure the dough is sealed tightly around the filling. Pinch and twist the seams well to avoid leakage.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, pizza or dinner roll dough can work in a pinch, though homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor.

What cheese is best for stuffing?

Cheddar is classic, but any good melting cheese like mozzarella or gouda works well.

Can I make these without meat?

Absolutely. Use sautéed vegetables, lentils, or meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

Do I need to let the dough rise twice?

A single rise before shaping is sufficient, but resting the shaped buns briefly before baking improves texture.

Can I freeze the buns before baking?

It’s best to bake them first, then freeze. Pre-baking ensures even texture upon reheating.

How do I know when the buns are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

What can I serve these with?

Serve with dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce, or pair with a simple salad or fries.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger stuffed buns are the perfect blend of hearty and handheld, combining everything you love about a cheeseburger with the comfort of soft baked bread. Whether for a family dinner, party snack, or meal prep, they’re sure to satisfy every time. Try out different variations and enjoy the versatility of this delicious recipe.