Jalapeño Popper Burgers

Step 1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and add a baking rack to it. Add the bacon slices to the rack in an even layer. Sprinkle bacon with brown sugar. Place the baking sheet in the oven. 

Step 2. Turn the oven to 425˚F. Make sure you put the bacon in a cold oven to allow it to bake as the oven heats up. This helps the bacon candy properly. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, the time varies based on how quickly your oven heats up. Remove from the oven when cooked through and glossy. Cut slices in half and set aside. 

Step 3. To make the filling, add all ingredients for the jalapeño cheese mixture to a medium bowl. Stir together until well-combined. Set aside. 

Step 4. In a large bowl, combine beef and seasoning until combined. Form the ground beef into 8 large thin rounds. Spoon 1/4 cup of the filling mixture onto one patty and cover with another patty. Pinch the edges together well to seal the burger, reshaping as needed. Repeat with remaining patties and filling.

Step 5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 350˚F). Place on grill and cook, flipping halfway through, until cooked to desired temperature. For medium rare, about 6 minutes per side. 

Step 6. Place burgers of toasted buns and top with candied bacon.