There’s nothing quite like a juicy, flavorful burger, but sometimes you want a little something extra. These Spicy Jalapeño Cream Cheese–Stuffed Turkey Burgers with Bacon are exactly that. They take a classic turkey burger and elevate it to a whole new level with a spicy, cheesy filling and a crispy bacon topping. It’s the kind of burger that feels special and decadent, but it’s surprisingly easy to make right in your own kitchen.

I first made these burgers for a backyard barbecue, and they were an instant hit. The combination of tender ground turkey, a creamy, spicy filling, and the smoky bacon is simply irresistible. This recipe is a testament to the fact that you can create something truly magnificent with a little bit of time and a lot of love.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The ground turkey is seasoned perfectly with onion, salt, and pepper, which gives it a wonderful base flavor. The star of the show is the creamy, spicy filling, made with softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh jalapeños. The filling melts as the burger cooks, creating a gooey, cheesy center that is an absolute delight. Paired with a crispy bacon topping, it’s a flavor explosion in every single bite.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 2 fresh jalapeños, minced (adjust to heat preference)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Turkey Burgers:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup almond flour (for binding)
• 1/4 cup onion, finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Swaps and Notes

• Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is perfect for this recipe. You can also use ground chicken if you prefer.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice here, but you can use any cheese you like! Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend would also be delicious.
• Jalapeños: You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to your desired level of heat. If you want it spicier, you can leave some of the seeds in.
• Almond Flour: The almond flour is a great alternative to traditional breadcrumbs. It helps bind the burger together and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
• Bacon: The crispy bacon is a must! You can cook it in a skillet or in the oven for a hands-off approach.

How to Make Spicy Jalapeño Cream Cheese-Stuffed Turkey Burgers

1. Make the Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, minced jalapeños, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
2. Make the Burger Patties: In a separate large bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour, finely minced onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Stuff the Burgers: Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into a thin patty. Place a scoop of the cream cheese stuffing in the center of two of the patties. Place the other two patties on top and pinch the edges to seal them, creating a stuffed burger.
4. Cook the Burgers: Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown crust. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Assemble and Serve: Serve the burgers on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and a slice of crispy bacon.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the turkey mixture too much can make the burgers tough. Mix until the ingredients are just incorporated.
• Seal the Edges: Be sure to pinch the edges of the patties to seal in the creamy stuffing. This prevents it from leaking out while the burgers are cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your burgers are cooked through without overcooking them.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These stuffed turkey burgers are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a side of French fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad. For a full-on fun meal, you could serve them with some of my Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter or a delicious Walking Taco Bar.

Storage and Leftover Tips

The uncooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cooked burgers are best enjoyed immediately.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meals, you’ll want to check out some of these other favorites:

• My Light Tangy Chicken Salad is another great mayo-free salad option.
• For a great weeknight dinner shortcut, my Dorito Casserole is a fun and flavorful option.
• For a fantastic, easy appetizer, my Baked Kosher Salami is a must-try.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Jalapeño Cream Cheese–Stuffed Turkey Burgers with Bacon are a recipe that proves a great meal doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner. I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home.

If you make these burgers, I’d love to hear about it! What’s your favorite topping to add to a burger? Let me know in the comments below.