The Ultimate Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Burger Recipe
There are regular burgers, and then there are the burgers you talk about for days. The ones that are so perfectly juicy, cheesy, and flavorful that they become the benchmark for all future burgers. That’s exactly what you get with a well-made jalapeño pimento cheese burger. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a celebration, whether you’re firing up the grill for friends or just treating yourself after a long week. The combination of a savory patty, creamy homemade pimento cheese, and a gentle kick of spice creates a truly satisfying experience. If you’re ready to create a burger that’s genuinely memorable, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking.
Key Takeaways
- Craft Your Own Pimento Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, make your own pimento cheese using freshly shredded cheddar and your choice of fresh or pickled jalapeños to manage the spice level.
- Prioritize a Juicy Patty: Use 80/20 ground chuck, handle the meat gently, and never press on the patty while it cooks. Letting it rest for a few minutes before serving is crucial for locking in flavor.
- Assemble with a Strategy: Prevent a soggy burger by toasting the bun and using a piece of lettuce as a moisture barrier on the bottom. A smart layering approach ensures a perfect bite every time.
What's a Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Burger?
If you love a classic burger but want to give it a Southern twist, let me introduce you to your new favorite: the Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Burger. This isn't just a burger with some cheese melted on top. It’s a juicy, savory patty crowned with a generous spread of creamy, tangy pimento cheese that’s been given a little kick from diced jalapeños. Pimento cheese is a true Southern staple, a simple but delicious spread made from cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sweet pimentos. When you add it to a burger, something magical happens. The creaminess of the cheese melts into the warm patty, creating a rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
This burger is perfect for just about any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a weekend cookout with friends and family. It brings together the best of both worlds: the comforting, familiar taste of a great burger and the signature flavor of a beloved Southern spread. While making your own is a fun kitchen project, sometimes you just want to enjoy the finished product without the work. If you're craving one right now, you can find our delicious version right on the Notch8 Carolina Kitchen menu. It’s a perfect example of how we put a little extra love and flavor into classic comfort food.
Breaking Down the Flavor
The taste of a Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Burger is a wonderful combination of creamy, spicy, and savory notes all in one bite. The star of the show is the pimento cheese spread, which provides a rich, tangy foundation. The sharp cheddar cheese and creamy mayonnaise create a smooth texture that perfectly complements the savory, grilled beef patty. The slight sweetness from the pimentos cuts through the richness, adding another layer of complexity. Then, the jalapeños come in, adding a bright, zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds without setting them on fire. It’s a balanced flavor profile that makes every bite interesting and incredibly satisfying.
Why Jalapeños Are the Secret Ingredient
Jalapeños are what truly make this burger special. They add a fantastic burst of flavor that goes beyond simple heat. Think of it as a fresh, slightly spicy note that enhances the richness of the cheese and the savory taste of the beef. A great Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Burger recipe shows that you don't need overwhelming fire to make a big impact. Even with a whole jalapeño in the mix, the burger is typically not too spicy for most people. The best part is you can easily control the heat. If you like it mild, remove the seeds and membranes. If you want more of a kick, leave some in. This versatility makes the jalapeño the perfect ingredient to give your pimento cheese a unique and memorable twist.
Gather Your Ingredients
Alright, before we get cooking, let's talk ingredients. A truly great burger starts with quality components, from the meat to the cheese to the bun. Getting these details right is what separates a good burger from a truly unforgettable one. If you're short on time, you can always skip the prep and order now to get your fix, but if you're ready to build your own, here’s what you’ll need.
For the Perfect Burger Patties
The heart of any burger is the patty, and for this recipe, you want something juicy but not greasy. Ground chuck is your best friend here; it has the perfect fat-to-meat ratio for flavor and texture. When it comes to seasoning, less is more. A generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, and maybe a little Montreal steak seasoning is all you need to let the beef shine. For a deeper, savory flavor, mix a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the meat before you form your patties. It adds a wonderful umami note that really makes a difference.
For the Spicy Pimento Cheese
This isn't your average slice of American cheese. We're making a spicy pimento cheese that’s creamy, tangy, and has a kick. Start with a block of sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, bold flavor. For that signature creaminess, a good-quality mayonnaise like Duke's is a must. You’ll also need a small jar of diced pimentos, which you can usually find near the pickles and olives. To bring the heat, finely chop some fresh jalapeños. If you prefer a bit more tang and a little less fire, pickled jalapeños work beautifully, too. Just be sure to drain them well!
For Building the Burger
With your patties and pimento cheese ready, let's talk about the finishing touches that bring it all together. Don't just grab any old bun from the bag. Choose a sturdy hamburger bun, brush it with some melted butter, and toast it on the grill or in a pan until it's golden brown. This simple step adds a fantastic crunch and keeps the bun from getting soggy. For toppings, stick to the classics that complement the rich flavors. Crisp green leaf lettuce and a thick slice of a juicy beefsteak tomato add freshness and balance to every bite.
How to Make Jalapeño Pimento Cheese
The secret to a truly unforgettable burger is the jalapeño pimento cheese. Forget the store-bought tubs, making your own is simple and gives you complete control over the flavor and texture. It’s the creamy, spicy, and cheesy heart of this burger, and getting it right is what separates a good burger from a great one. This spread is a Southern staple for a reason, and once you see how easy it is to whip up, you’ll be putting it on everything. Ready to make the best pimento cheese of your life? Let’s get started.
Pick the Right Cheese Blend
The foundation of any great pimento cheese is, of course, the cheese itself. For that classic rich flavor and creamy consistency, a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese is your best bet. I always recommend shredding your own block of cheddar. Pre-shredded cheeses often have anti-caking agents that can make your spread a bit grainy and prevent it from melting as smoothly. Using a good quality, full-fat block of cream cheese will also ensure your pimento cheese is perfectly luscious and spreadable. This small step of choosing quality ingredients makes a huge difference in the final product, giving you that authentic, homemade taste that just can't be replicated.
Get the Texture Just Right
Texture is everything when it comes to pimento cheese, especially when it’s destined for a burger. You want a spread that’s mostly smooth so it melts into a glorious, cheesy blanket over your patty, but with just enough texture to remind you it’s homemade. The best way to achieve this is with a food processor. Pulse your ingredients until they come together, but stop just before it becomes completely smooth. This creates a perfect balance that stays creamy and emulsified as it cooks. If you don't have a food processor, you can absolutely mix it by hand. It will just require a bit more elbow grease and result in a chunkier, more rustic texture.
Fresh vs. Pickled Jalapeños
Here’s where you can really start to customize. Your choice between fresh and pickled jalapeños will have a big impact on the final flavor. Fresh, finely chopped jalapeños will give you a bright, green, and straightforward heat. If you prefer a little tang and a vinegary kick to cut through the richness of the cheese, pickled jalapeños are a fantastic option. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly and pat them dry before chopping them up. You don’t want any extra liquid watering down your pimento cheese. Either way, you’ll get that signature spice that makes this spread so addictive.
Control the Spice Level
Jalapeños are wonderful because they offer so much more than just heat; they have a distinct, delicious flavor. This recipe is designed to be flavorful with a pleasant warmth, not an overpowering fire. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can easily manage the heat level. The majority of a pepper's heat is stored in its seeds and the white membrane inside. For a milder pimento cheese, simply remove the seeds and membranes before you chop the jalapeño. If you’re a true heat-seeker, feel free to leave some seeds in or even add an extra pepper. It’s your burger, so make it just how you like it.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about pimento cheese is that it actually gets better with time. You can easily prepare it a day or two in advance. Storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator allows all the flavors to meld together, deepening the taste of the cheddar, cream cheese, and jalapeños. This makes it a perfect party prep food or a great way to get ahead on weeknight dinner. When you’re ready to build your burgers, just give the pimento cheese a good stir and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to make it easier to spread.
How to Cook the Perfect Burger Patty
The heart and soul of any amazing burger is a perfectly cooked patty. It’s the foundation that everything else is built on, and getting it right makes all the difference between a good burger and a truly unforgettable one. We've all had a burger that was dry, tough, or just fell apart. It's a common kitchen letdown, but it's also completely avoidable. You don't need to be a professional chef to master it. The secret to a juicy, flavorful burger patty lies in a few simple techniques, from choosing the right meat to letting it rest before you dig in. These steps will give you a solid base for that glorious jalapeño pimento cheese we're making. A spicy, creamy topping deserves a patty that can hold its own, not get lost in the mix.
Of course, if you’d rather leave the cooking to us, we get it. Some days you just want to enjoy a great meal without the cleanup. You can always visit us at Notch8 for a burger that hits the spot every time. But for those days you want to fire up your own grill and feel that sense of accomplishment, we’ve got you covered. Let’s walk through how to create a patty that’s so good, it could be the star of its own show.
Choose the Right Ground Beef
Your journey to the perfect burger starts in the meat aisle. For a truly juicy and flavorful patty, you’ll want to pay attention to the fat content. I always recommend an 80/20 blend of ground chuck. This means it’s 80% lean meat and 20% fat. That fat is your best friend here; it renders down during cooking, basting the burger from the inside out and keeping it incredibly moist. While leaner options like ground sirloin might seem healthier, they can easily lead to a dry, crumbly burger. Trust me, the 80/20 ratio is the sweet spot for that classic, satisfying burger experience.
Form and Chill Your Patties
How you handle the meat is just as important as what you buy. The key is to be gentle. Overworking the ground beef can make it tough, so handle it as little as possible. Gently shape the meat into equal-sized patties that are slightly wider than your buns, since they’ll shrink a bit as they cook. Next, use your thumb to press a small, shallow dimple into the center of each patty. This simple trick prevents them from puffing up into a ball on the grill. Once formed, let the patties chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This helps them hold their shape and stay firm during cooking.
Grill or Pan-Fry?
This is the great burger debate, and honestly, there’s no wrong answer. Grilling gives your burgers that classic, smoky char and beautiful grill marks. It’s a fantastic choice, especially on a sunny day. On the other hand, cooking your patties in a hot cast-iron skillet creates an unbeatable crust. The patty sears in its own rendered fat, developing a deep, savory flavor through the Maillard reaction. Your choice really just depends on the flavor profile you’re after. If you want smoky, hit the grill. If you crave that perfect, even crust, the skillet is your friend.
Keep Your Burger Juicy
If you remember only one thing, let it be this: do not press down on your burger patties while they’re cooking! I know it’s tempting to smash them with a spatula, but all you’re doing is squeezing out the precious juices and flavor. A juicy burger is a happy burger, so let it cook in peace. Another tip is to season your patties with salt and pepper right before they go on the heat. If you salt the meat too early, it can start to draw out moisture, which can affect the final texture. A light touch and a hands-off approach are your secrets to a perfectly moist patty.
Cook to the Right Temperature
For the best flavor and texture, you want to avoid overcooking your burger. While cooking times are a helpful guide (about 3-4 minutes per side for medium), the most reliable way to check for doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer. It takes all the guesswork out of the equation and ensures your burger is cooked exactly how you like it, every single time. For a juicy, slightly pink center, aim for a medium cook. Just insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the patty. A good food temperature chart is a great tool to keep handy in your kitchen.
Let the Patty Rest
You’re so close to burger perfection! Once your patties are cooked, take them off the heat and let them rest on a clean plate for a few minutes before assembling your burger. This step is crucial. Resting allows the juices that have moved to the center of the patty during cooking to redistribute throughout the meat. If you skip this and slice or bite into it right away, all that delicious juice will spill out onto your plate instead of staying in the burger. A short 3-5 minute rest is all it takes to guarantee every bite is as flavorful and juicy as possible.
How to Build Your Burger
You’ve cooked the perfect patty and whipped up a batch of incredible jalapeño pimento cheese. Now comes the fun part: assembling a burger that’s as structurally sound as it is delicious. The way you build your burger matters. A thoughtful approach to layering ensures every bite is balanced, with the right mix of textures and flavors, and prevents the dreaded soggy bun that can ruin an otherwise perfect meal. It’s about more than just stacking ingredients; it’s about creating an experience. From choosing the right bun to toasting it perfectly and layering your toppings with intention, these final steps are what separate a good burger from a truly great one. If you're not in the mood to cook, you can always order now and let us handle the assembly.
Toast the Bun (Without Burning It)
A toasted bun is non-negotiable for a top-tier burger. It adds a bit of crunch, enhances the flavor, and creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess. The key is to get it golden brown without letting it turn into a charcoal briquette. Lightly butter the cut sides of your buns and place them on the grill or in a hot pan for about a minute. You need to keep a close eye on them, as the sugars in the bread can cause them to burn in a flash. The goal is a light, even toast that provides just enough structure and warmth to complement the juicy patty and creamy pimento cheese.
Choose the Best Bun
The foundation of your burger is the bun, so choose wisely. You want something soft and flavorful but sturdy enough to hold all your toppings without falling apart. Brioche and Hawaiian buns are fantastic choices because their slightly sweet, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the savory patty and spicy cheese. They also toast exceptionally well, creating a pillowy-soft interior with a lightly crisp surface. A classic potato roll is another solid option if you prefer something a little less sweet. Avoid overly dense or crusty rolls that can overwhelm the other ingredients and make the burger difficult to eat.
Prevent a Soggy Bottom Bun
There’s nothing more disappointing than a bottom bun that disintegrates halfway through your meal. The secret to preventing this is creating a moisture barrier between the juicy patty and the bread. A crisp piece of lettuce works well, but for a Southern-style burger, a layer of coleslaw is even better. As one grilling expert suggests, you should dress the bottom bun with your barrier ingredient first, then place the burger patty on top. This simple step shields the bun from the meat’s juices, ensuring it stays intact until the very last bite.
Layer for the Perfect Bite
The order of your toppings can make or break your burger. A strategic layering approach ensures a balanced mix of flavors and textures in every bite. Start with your toasted bottom bun and a moisture barrier like lettuce. Next, add your juicy burger patty, topped with a generous dollop of jalapeño pimento cheese. From there, you can add your favorite extras, like crispy bacon, a spoonful of bacon jam, or a few extra pickled jalapeños for more heat. Finish with your top bun, and gently press down to bring it all together.
Try the Stuffed Patty Method
If you want to get creative and guarantee a pocket of molten cheese in every bite, try stuffing the pimento cheese inside the patty. To do this, form two thin patties. Make a small indent in the center of one patty, add a spoonful of your jalapeño pimento cheese, and then place the second patty on top. Carefully pinch and seal the edges to completely enclose the cheese. This stuffed patty method creates a delicious surprise when you bite into the burger. Just be sure the patty is sealed tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out on the grill.
What Are the Best Toppings?
A jalapeño pimento cheese burger is already packed with flavor, so you don't need to go overboard with toppings. The goal is to choose additions that complement the creamy, spicy pimento cheese and the juicy burger patty without stealing the show. Think of toppings as the supporting cast that makes your star performer, the burger, shine even brighter.
The right combination can add texture, a little extra heat, or a touch of freshness to balance everything out. Whether you're a purist who believes less is more or someone who loves a fully loaded burger, we have some ideas for you. We’ll cover toppings that amplify the spice, some classic pairings that never fail, and the perfect Southern sides to round out your meal. Let's build the perfect bite.
Toppings That Complement the Heat
If you love the kick from the jalapeños in the pimento cheese, why not lean into it? For those who appreciate a little extra fire, adding a few more jalapeño slices is a fantastic choice. You can use fresh, thinly sliced jalapeños for a crisp, bright heat or go with pickled jalapeños for a tangy, zesty spice that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Another simple way to turn up the temperature is with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. A vinegar-based sauce can add a nice tang, while a smokier, chipotle-style sauce can introduce another layer of flavor. Just a few dashes are all you need to give your burger a personalized level of spice.
Classic Add-ons: Bacon, Onions, and More
Some toppings are considered classics for a reason, they just work. Crispy, salty bacon is the perfect partner for a pimento cheese burger. Its savory crunch provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy cheese and tender patty. For an extra flavor dimension, try using peppered bacon to add a subtle, peppery bite.
Beyond bacon, a few simple additions can make a big difference. Thinly sliced red onion offers a sharp, fresh crunch that balances the richness of the burger. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, slow-cooked caramelized onions are a delicious option. And of course, a crisp piece of iceberg or romaine lettuce can add a refreshing texture to every bite.
Southern Sides to Complete the Meal
A burger this good deserves an equally delicious sidekick. To transform your meal into a true Southern feast, pair your jalapeño pimento cheese burger with some classic comfort food sides. You can’t go wrong with a scoop of creamy coleslaw, a side of homestyle potato salad, or a basket of perfectly seasoned fries. These sides are staples for a reason and create a satisfying, well-rounded plate.
If you want to try something a little different, a pimento cheese pasta salad makes for a fun and flavorful pairing. It echoes the main flavor of your burger while bringing its own unique character to the meal. And if all this talk has you craving a burger without the work, you can always order the real deal and let us handle the cooking.
How to Customize Your Burger
One of the best parts of a great recipe is using it as a starting point to create something that’s perfectly yours. This jalapeño pimento cheese burger is delicious as is, but it’s also incredibly easy to tweak. Whether you want to change up the cheese, adjust the heat, or cut the carbs, you have plenty of options. Think of these tips as your guide to making this burger your own signature dish. After all, cooking should be fun and flexible, especially when it comes to Southern classics. If you'd rather leave the cooking to the pros, you can always visit us at Notch8 for the real thing.
Swap the Cheese
While classic pimento cheese is traditionally made with cheddar, there’s no rule that says you can’t get creative. The beauty of making it at home is that you can completely customize the flavor. Try experimenting with different cheeses to find a blend you love. A smoked gouda can add a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the burger, while a sharp white cheddar can give it an extra tangy bite. For a creamier, meltier texture, consider adding some Monterey Jack or Colby. Just be sure to shred your own cheese from a block; it melts much better than the pre-shredded kind and gives your pimento cheese a superior texture.
Make It More or Less Spicy
You are in complete control of the heat level. If you’re a true spice lover, feel free to add more fresh jalapeños to the pimento cheese mixture. You can even leave some of the seeds and membranes in for an extra kick. For a milder, more approachable heat, use pickled jalapeños instead. They offer that signature jalapeño flavor with a bit less intensity and a pleasant tang from the vinegar brine. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mix for another layer of flavor. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go until you find the perfect balance for your palate.
Create a Low-Carb Burger Bowl
If you’re watching your carbs or prefer to skip the bun, this burger easily transforms into a satisfying low-carb meal. Simply cook your patty as directed and serve it over a generous bed of crisp lettuce. Top it with a big dollop of the jalapeño pimento cheese, some crispy bacon, and sliced red onions. This "burger bowl" approach is a fantastic way to enjoy all the rich, savory flavors without the bread. It’s a fresh, lighter take that still feels like a hearty and comforting meal. You can find similar fresh and flavorful options on our menu for inspiration.
Common Burger Mistakes to Avoid
We’ve all been there: you follow a recipe to the letter, but your burger still turns out a little… off. Maybe it’s dry, the cheese gets greasy, or the whole thing falls apart. The good news is that a few small tweaks can make a huge difference. Getting that perfect, juicy, flavor-packed burger is totally within reach. Let’s walk through some of the most common slip-ups and how to fix them, so your next homemade jalapeño pimento cheeseburger is your best one yet.
Don't Overmix the Meat or Cheese
When you’re excited to get cooking, it’s easy to get a little too enthusiastic with the mixing bowl. For your burger patties, handle the ground beef as little as possible. Just mix in your seasonings until they’re combined. Overworking the meat develops the proteins, which results in a tough, dense patty instead of a tender one. The same rule applies to your pimento cheese. You want to process the cheese until it’s almost smooth, but still has some texture. This helps it stay creamy and emulsified as it melts over the hot burger, preventing it from turning into a greasy mess.
Don't Skip Draining Your Ingredients
Moisture is the enemy of a well-structured burger. While you want a juicy patty, you don’t want extra liquid making everything soggy. This is especially important when you’re making your jalapeño pimento cheese. Jarred pimentos and pickled jalapeños are packed in liquid, so you need to drain them thoroughly before adding them to your cheese mixture. A great tip from Erica's Recipes is to drain them well in a colander and then pat them dry with a paper towel. This simple step ensures your pimento cheese is thick and flavorful, not watery, and helps keep your burger bun from getting soggy.
Stop Pressing Down on the Patty
It’s tempting, I know. You hear that satisfying sizzle when you press your spatula down on a burger patty. But that sound is actually the sound of flavor escaping. Pressing down on the patty squeezes out all the delicious juices, and those juices are what make a burger moist and flavorful. A dry burger is a sad burger. For the best results, place your patty on the grill or in the pan and let it be. Trust the cooking process and flip it only once. For more great grilling advice, you can find some excellent pimento cheeseburger tips that will help you master your technique.
Always Let Your Burger Rest
This might be the most overlooked step in the entire burger-making process, but it’s one of the most important. Just like a good steak, a burger patty needs a moment to rest after it comes off the heat. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If you slice or bite into it immediately, all that flavor will run out onto your plate instead of staying in the burger. As Amee's Savory Dish suggests, just let the burgers sit for a minute or two. You can use this time to toast your buns or gather your toppings. It’s a small wait for a much juicier, more satisfying bite.
Craving the Real Thing? Visit Notch8 Carolina Kitchen
Making the perfect jalapeño pimento cheese burger at home is a delicious project, but let’s be real, sometimes you just want someone else to handle the cooking and the dishes. When that craving for authentic Southern flavor hits and you’re not in the mood to fire up the grill, there’s a fantastic local spot that has you covered. If you're in or around Florence, South Carolina, you need to plan a visit to Notch8 Carolina Kitchen. It’s the perfect place to satisfy that burger craving without lifting a finger.
Notch8 is known for serving up some of the best Southern comfort food in the area, and their burgers are no exception. Locals consistently praise the incredible flavors and generous portions that make every meal feel special. You’ll find people talking about how they were so impressed they came back twice in one week, which says a lot about the quality you can expect. It’s the kind of place that masters the classics while adding its own unique, delicious twist. You can check out our menu online to see all the mouthwatering options waiting for you.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for a lunch break or a relaxed dinner with family, Notch8 offers a welcoming atmosphere that feels like coming home. And if you're short on time or just want to enjoy a great meal on your own couch, you can always order online for easy pickup. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a professionally crafted meal that tastes even better than homemade, especially when you’re craving that perfect burger.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the jalapeño pimento cheese ahead of time? Absolutely, and I actually recommend it. Making the pimento cheese a day or two in advance gives the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a richer, more delicious spread. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make your burgers, let the cheese sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften up, which will make it much easier to spread.
My burgers always turn out dry. What am I doing wrong? A dry burger is a common frustration, but it's usually easy to fix. The most important factor is the meat itself, so start with an 80/20 blend of ground chuck; that fat content is essential for a juicy result. Also, resist the urge to press down on the patty with your spatula while it cooks. Doing so squeezes out all the flavorful juices. Finally, let the cooked patty rest for a few minutes before you build your burger so the juices can redistribute.
Is this burger going to be overwhelmingly spicy? Not at all, unless you want it to be. You have complete control over the heat level. Most of a jalapeño's spice is in its seeds and the white membranes inside. For a burger that has a pleasant warmth and lots of pepper flavor without the intense fire, simply remove the seeds and membranes before you chop the jalapeño.
What’s the best way to keep the bottom bun from getting soggy? A soggy bun can ruin a great burger, but there are two simple tricks to prevent it. First, always toast your buns. Brushing the cut sides with a little melted butter and toasting them in a pan creates a protective barrier. Second, use a piece of crisp lettuce as a shield. Place the lettuce on the bottom bun first, then put the burger patty on top of it. The lettuce will help block the juices from soaking into the bread.
Do I have to use cheddar for the pimento cheese? While sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses. Making your own pimento cheese is the perfect opportunity to create a custom flavor blend. A smoked gouda would add a wonderful smoky depth, or you could mix in some Monterey Jack for an extra creamy, melty texture. Just remember to shred the cheese yourself from a block for the smoothest result.