Mom's Favorites: Jalapeno Popper Burgers

So, tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo. How about some jalapeno in your dinner? Tonight and tomorrow are Mexican inspired dishes that Mom will be sure to love! And, of course, burgers on the grill are another Mom favorite so you really can't go wrong. 

Jalapeno Popper Burgers

Ingredients:
3 jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded       1 tsp. olive oil      3 oz. cream cheese, softened
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled           1 tsp. salt             2 minced garlic cloves
1 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning                     1/2 tsp. pepper    1/4 tsp. paprika
2 lbs. ground beef or turkey                           8 buns, slices of jack cheese and lettuce leaves
1 large tomato, sliced                                    3/4 c. guacamole

Note: I changed this to reflect 8 burgers instead of 4. I found 4 1/2 lb burgers to be unwieldy. Let me know which way you do it.

Directions:

1. Brush jalapenos with oil. 
2. Grill, over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. When cool enough, finely chop.
4. In a small bowl, combine bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeno until blended.
5. In a large bowl, combine garlic, salt, lemon pepper, pepper and paprika.
6. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well.
7. Shape into 16 thin patties.
8. Spoon bacon mixture on to half of the patties.
9. Top with the remaining patties and press edges firmly to seal.
10. Grill the burgers, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 inn. from heat for 6-7 minutes on each side.
11. Top with cheese and cover and cook 1-2 minutes longer.
12. Grill buns, cut side down, until toasted.
13. Serve burgers on buns with lettuce, tomato and guacamole.