When a jalapeño popper crashes into a juicy double smash burger, magic happens. This Double-Decker Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger with Ranch Drizzle takes everything you love about burgers and spicy bar snacks and stacks it high—literally. We’re talking crispy bacon, melty cream cheese, fiery jalapeños, and tangy ranch, all sandwiched between a double layer of seasoned beef and a toasted bun.
Why I Love This Recipe
This burger has everything. The cheesy center delivers melty richness. The jalapeños offer just enough heat. The bacon adds crunch and salt, and the ranch drizzle ties it all together with creamy coolness. Smash burgers are already flavor bombs—but when you stuff them with popper filling and stack two high? Game over. Perfect for game day, backyard cookouts, or when you’re in the mood to go big or go home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 jalapeños, sliced
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 4 hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Ground beef: Use 80/20 for optimal juiciness.
- Cream cheese: Let it soften to room temp for easy mixing.
- Jalapeños: Remove seeds for less heat or sub with pickled for tang.
- Ranch: Try chipotle ranch or avocado ranch for a twist.
- Buns: Brioche adds a buttery finish, but potato rolls work too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Patties
Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Form into thin, even patties. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Set aside and drain on paper towels.
3. Sauté the Jalapeños
In the same skillet, cook jalapeño slices until softened and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
4. Make the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth.
5. Assemble the Burger Layers
Top 4 patties with a spoonful of cheese mixture, a strip of bacon, and a few jalapeño slices. Place a second patty over each and seal the edges to form stuffed double-deckers.
6. Cook the Burgers
Heat a grill or griddle to medium-high. Brush lightly with olive oil. Smash and cook burgers for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
7. Toast the Buns
Place buns on the grill cut-side down for 1–2 minutes until golden.
8. Build and Drizzle
Spread ranch on the bottom bun. Add the stuffed burger. Drizzle with extra ranch. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Seal the edges well to keep the cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Use a cast-iron griddle or skillet for the perfect smash crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill—give each patty room to breathe and brown.
- Let burgers rest briefly before assembling to keep buns from getting soggy.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Pair with Beer Cheese Dip and fries for an epic party platter.
- Serve with Crockpot Nacho Dip and tortilla chips for snack-style sides.
- Make it a cookout combo with Dorito Casserole or
Cheesy Chicken Sliders. - Cap off the heat with Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies for a sweet finish.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store cooked burgers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture.
- Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the bun and filling.
- Freeze uncooked patties (pre-assembled) for up to 1 month. Thaw before cooking.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- These Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
Final Thoughts
This Double-Decker Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger is the burger of dreams: crispy-edged beef, creamy spicy filling, smoky bacon, and that irresistible ranch drizzle. It’s a full-on flavor stack you won’t soon forget—and one that’ll leave your guests begging for the recipe. Prepare for repeat requests.
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