BACON AND DATE GOAT CHEESE BURGERS

Bacon and Date Goat Cheese Burgers image

Every bite of this burger is a rich and decadent combination of sweet and savory. If you can't find maple bacon in your local store, you can add 1-1/2 tablespoons maple syrup to the spinach-goat cheese mixture in the food processor and use regular bacon. -Sharon Michelle Anglin, Livingston, Montana

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 40m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

2-3/4 cups fresh baby spinach, divided
1 package (8 ounces) pistachios, shelled
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, halved
1/2 to 1-1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 package (5.3 ounces) fresh goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1 package (8 ounces) pitted dates, chopped
6 brioche hamburger buns, split
1 medium red onion, sliced
1/2 pound maple-flavored bacon strips, cooked

Steps:

Place 2 cups spinach, pistachios, lemon juice, garlic, pepper flakes, salt and pepper in a food processor; pulse until chopped. Add goat cheese; process until blended. Continue processing while gradually adding oil in a steady stream to reach a spreadable consistency. Refrigerate until serving., Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine beef and dates, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into six 1/2-in.-thick patties. Place burgers on an oiled grill rack or in a greased 15x10x1-in. pan. Grill, covered, over medium heat or broil 4-5 in. from heat until a thermometer reads 160°, 4-5 minutes per side. Grill buns, cut sides down, over medium heat until toasted., Top bun bottoms with remaining spinach, burgers, red onion and bacon. Spread 4 teaspoons goat cheese mixture over cut side of each bun top; place on burger. Cover and refrigerate remaining goat cheese mixture; save for another use.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 804 calories, Fat 45g fat (11g saturated fat), Cholesterol 118mg cholesterol, Sodium 788mg sodium, Carbohydrate 67g carbohydrate (34g sugars, Fiber 9g fiber), Protein 39g protein.