Ingredients:

 

For the Burger Patties:

 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

4 cubes of your favorite cheese (e.g., cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese)

For the Lava Sauce:

 1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste for spiciness)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembling:

 4 hamburger buns

Lettuce leaves

Sliced tomatoes

Sliced red onion

Pickles (optional)

Additional cheese slices (optional)

Instructions:

 

Step 1: Prepare the Lava Sauce

 In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Sriracha sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.

Taste and adjust the spice level and seasoning to your preference. Set the lava sauce aside.

Step 2: Season and Form the Burger Patties

 In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions.

Take one portion, flatten it slightly, place a cheese cube in the center, and then cover it with another portion of meat. Shape it into a burger patty, ensuring the cheese is sealed inside. Repeat for the remaining patties.

Step 3: Cook the Burger Patties

 Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the burger patties for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness.

In the last minute of cooking, you can add additional cheese slices on top of the patties to melt.

Step 4: Assemble the Lava Burgers

 Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly browned.

Spread a generous amount of lava sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each bun.

Place lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, and sliced red onion on the bottom bun.

Add the cooked burger patty with or without additional melted cheese.

Optionally, add pickles for extra crunch.

Top with the remaining half of the bun.

Step 5: Serve 

Serve your gourmet lava burgers hot and enjoy the oozing cheese and flavorful lava sauce.

These gourmet lava burgers are a mouthwatering treat with a surprise cheesy center and a zesty lava sauce. They're perfect for burger enthusiasts looking for a bit of gourmet flair. Enjoy this delightful and indulgent meal!