Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Fondue Recipe

I like this recipe because it pushes comfort food to the next level. I enjoy how the burgers stay juicy, the onions caramelize into the meat, and the cheese sauce ties everything together in a rich, savory pool. I also love that it feels interactive and dramatic, especially when served straight from a hot skillet.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Beef:
2 lbs of Ground Beef 90/10
2 cups Thinly Sliced Onions
1 tbsp Kosher Salt
1 tbsp Black Pepper
1 tbsp Garlic Powder

Burger:
8-10 American Cheese Slices
½ cup Mayonnaise
Burger Buns

Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
2 tbsp All Purpose Flour
1 cup Whole Milk
1 cup Shredded Jack Cheese
1 tsp Dijon Mustard
1 tsp Cayenne Powder
Kosher Salt to taste

Directions

I start by making the cheese sauce. I preheat the grill to medium heat, around 350°F, and place a skillet over direct heat. I add the butter, flour, and cayenne powder, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth. I slowly add the milk and stir until the sauce thickens. I mix in the Dijon mustard, then add the shredded Jack cheese and stir until melted and smooth. I thin the sauce with a little more milk if needed, then remove it from the heat and keep it warm.

For the burgers, I preheat the grill to high heat, about 400°F. I portion the ground beef into balls about 1/4 pound each and place them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

I add a cast iron skillet or plancha over the flames and let it preheat until lightly smoking. I place a burger ball on the skillet, top it with a handful of sliced onions, cover with parchment paper, and firmly smash it down with a spatula. I season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

I flip the patty carefully, season the other side, top it with a slice of American cheese, and let it melt for another 1 to 2 minutes. I remove the patty and repeat with the remaining burgers.

To assemble, I toast the buns and spread mayonnaise on the bottom. I add one or two patties, top with more mayonnaise, and finish with the top bun. I slice each burger in half.

To serve, I heat the cheese sauce in a ripping-hot skillet and place the burger halves cut-side down directly into the sauce. I serve immediately while everything is hot and melty.

Servings and Timing

I make this recipe to serve 4 people. Prep time takes me about 30 minutes, cook time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the total time comes to around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped pickles to the burger before slicing for extra flavor. I also like swapping the Jack cheese for cheddar when I want a sharper sauce. When I’m feeling adventurous, I add a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover burger patties and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I reheat the burgers in a skillet over medium heat and warm the cheese sauce gently, stirring often so it stays smooth.

FAQs

What makes this a fondue-style dish?

I serve the burgers sliced and dunked directly into hot cheese sauce, which creates that fondue-style experience.

Can I cook the burgers indoors?

I’ve made them on a stovetop cast iron skillet with great results.

Do I have to smash the burgers?

I prefer smashing because it creates more crust and flavor, but thicker patties also work.

What buns work best?

I like soft brioche buns because they soak up the sauce without falling apart.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

I can make it earlier in the day and gently reheat it before serving.

Is this dish very spicy?

I find it mildly warm, but I adjust the cayenne depending on my mood.

Can I add fries on the side?

I often serve fries alongside for dipping into the extra cheese sauce.

What’s the best way to keep the cheese sauce smooth?

I keep the heat low and stir often when reheating.

Can I use a different ground beef ratio?

I like 90/10 for balance, but slightly fattier beef works too.

Is this good for sharing?

I love serving this family-style because it’s fun and interactive.

Conclusion

I keep this Cheeseburger Fondue recipe for days when I want comfort food that feels bold and playful. I love the combination of juicy burgers, rich cheese sauce, and the hands-on way it’s served. It’s indulgent, memorable, and always a crowd-pleaser.