These Blackened Steak Queso-Stuffed Jalapeño Popper Burgers are everything you crave in one epic, handheld bite: melty queso, charred steak bits, spicy jalapeño, and a smoky blackened crust on a juicy burger patty. Stuffed directly into the beef, the jalapeño popper filling delivers creamy, cheesy heat with every single bite.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just upping your burger night game, this recipe is guaranteed to impress—and satisfy.
Why I Love This Recipe
This burger combines bold flavors with melty indulgence. The blackening seasoning gives the beef patties that smoky crust, while the jalapeño halves hide a molten surprise of steak, cheddar, and cream cheese. It’s spicy, rich, and layered with texture—from the crispy edges of the beef to the soft center of cheese-stuffed heat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp blackening seasoning
- 4 jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup diced cooked steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Blackening seasoning: Cajun or Creole blends work as substitutes.
- Steak: Use leftover grilled steak, ribeye trimmings, or deli roast beef for convenience.
- Cheese mix: Try pepper jack or smoked gouda for a twist.
- Jalapeños: For less heat, use poblano or banana peppers.
- Buns: Brioche or toasted pretzel buns offer a rich contrast to the spicy filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
2. Mix the Burger Base
Combine ground beef with blackening seasoning. Mix well and divide into 8 equal portions. Flatten into thin patties.
3. Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix cheddar, cream cheese, diced steak, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Fill the Jalapeños
Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Fill each half generously with the queso-steak mixture.
5. Stuff the Burgers
Place a filled jalapeño between two patties. Press and seal edges tightly to encase the pepper completely. Repeat for all burgers.
6. Grill
Grill each stuffed burger for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until desired doneness and internal cheese is hot and melty.
7. Toast the Buns
Place buns on the grill for the last few minutes of cooking to lightly toast.
8. Assemble and Serve
Place each burger on a toasted bun. Add your favorite toppings if desired—lettuce, tomato, or a dollop of ranch. Serve hot!
Tips for Success
- Seal edges well to keep the filling intact while grilling.
- Use a toothpick to hold patties together before grilling if needed—just remember to remove it!
- Grill jalapeños briefly before stuffing for a softer texture and smoky flavor.
- Let the burgers rest 1–2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Add a side of Beer Cheese Dip and tortilla chips for a bar-style feast.
- Go bold with Dorito Casserole for a cheesy side that’s just as indulgent.
- Keep guests snacking with Crockpot Nacho Dip.
- Add a handheld companion with Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders.
- Wrap it all up with Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies for the perfect finish.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store cooked patties in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.
- Uncooked assembled patties can be frozen for up to 1 month—thaw before grilling.
- Cheese mixture can be prepped 2–3 days ahead and stored covered in the fridge.
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
These Blackened Steak Queso-Stuffed Jalapeño Popper Burgers are bold, indulgent, and packed with heat, creaminess, and meaty depth. From backyard barbecues to burger night upgrades, they’re built to impress. One bite in, and you’ll agree—this is not your average cheeseburger.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and share your ultimate burger creations with us!
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