Bacon Onion Cheese-Stuffed Burgers

Combine the ground beef, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a large mixing bowl using your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly.

Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions, approximately 1/4 pound each, and shape them into thin patties. Arrange the patties on a cookie sheet and cover them with plastic wrap; refrigerate for later use.

Place the bacon slices in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they are evenly browned on both sides, taking about 5 minutes. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet using a slotted spoon and drain it on paper towels. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the onions in the remaining bacon drippings until they are soft and lightly browned. Mix the cooked onions with the bacon in a small bowl.

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill grate with cooking spray.

Take the chilled beef patties out of the refrigerator and top 6 of them with a spoonful of the bacon and onion mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Top each with one of the remaining patties and press the edges together to seal them tightly.

Place the stuffed patties on the preheated grill and cook until the beef is no longer pink in the center, taking about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Serve the cooked burgers on hamburger buns with your preferred condiments.