Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Burgers

There’s just something magical about biting into a burger and discovering a gooey, cheesy, bacon-packed center. These Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Burgers take your classic backyard favorite and turn it into something extra indulgent. Perfect for grilling season, a casual get-together, or a weekend treat, these burgers are juicy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Once you make them, you might never go back to regular burgers again!

Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• 4 burger buns

• Toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onion, etc.

• Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Cook the Bacon:
     In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside.

  2. Make the Beef Patties:
     In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Do not overmix, or the burgers will be tough.

  3. Form the Patties:
     Divide the beef into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin patty.

  4. Stuff the Burgers:
     On 4 of the patties, place about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese and a good amount of crumbled bacon in the center. Top each with another patty and pinch the edges together tightly to seal, ensuring no cheese escapes while cooking.

  5. Grill or Cook:
     Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the burgers are cooked through.

  6. Assemble:
     Toast your buns if desired. Place the cooked stuffed burgers on the buns and add your favorite toppings and condiments.

  7. Serve Hot:
     Serve immediately while the cheese inside is melty and delicious!

  8. Tips for Extra Juicy Stuffed Burgers:

     • Handle the beef gently when forming patties.

     • Make sure the edges are sealed very well to prevent leaks.

     • Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving to keep the juices inside.