Blue Cheese Stuffed Hamburgers

This is my modified Emeril Lagasse stuffed hamburger recipe. These hamburgers are quite tasty but if you're not a blue cheese lover, try using cubes of pepper jack or even feta! Since I do not have Emeril's "Essence" I used grilled seasoning, but you can also use Goya seasoning or your favorite meat seasoning.

INGREDIENTS (serves 4)

• 2 pounds ground beef chuck
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/24teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon grill seasoning
• 12 ounces blue cheese
• 4 large whole wheat buns, split in half
• Desired condiments, such as sliced tomatoes, romaine, sliced onions, and avocados

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat a gas or charcoal grill. (Alternately, cook the patties in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the beef, garlic, salt, pepper, and grill seasoning, and mix gently but thoroughly. Divide into 8 equal patties. In a separate bowl, crumble the cheese and form into 4 equal patties.
3. Place 1 cheese patty on each of 4 beef patties. Top with remaining 4 beef patties, pinching the edges under to seal the cheese completely.
4. Place the stuffed patties on the grill and cook to desired temperature, about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare. (Alternately, cook the patties in a large skillet over medium-high heat.)
5. Place the buns on the grill, inside down, until just warmed through, about 30 seconds. Remove the patties and buns from the grill and place on serving plates. Garnish with condiments and serve immediately.