For the Burgers:

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper.
2. Split the mixture into 8 equal portions and flatten into patties about 1/2″ larger than your buns.
3. Make an indention in the center of each patty. This will keep them from rising.
4. Prepare a grill and heat it to 375°F. If using a stove, heat a skillet on medium-high heat.
5. Sear the burgers about 4 minutes on each side and cook to preferred level of doneness.
6. Remove to a plate and season with a pinch of salt as they rest.

For the peppers and onions:

1. In a medium cast iron skillet, place the vegetable oil, onions and peppers and set it on your grill to cook alongside the burgers.
2. Sauté for 3 minutes, then simmer for 12-15 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. If using the stove, heat the oil in a medium skillet on medium heat and sauté the peppers and onions for about 3 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for another 12-15 minutes until soft and translucent.

For the jalapeño ranch:

1. In the bowl of a blender or food processor, place the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, garlic and ranch seasoning.
2. Blend until smooth and thin, like a dressing. Set aside and chill until ready to use. **This step is best done ahead of time, if possible. It tastes better the second day after the flavors have had time to meld.

For assembly:

1. While the grill is still hot, spray the insides of your buns lightly with oil and place on the grill oil side down. Toast for less than a minute, just enough time to get brown and crispy.
2. If using the stove, heat a skillet to medium and toast oiled buns 1 minute, or until soft and golden brown.
3. In order, layer the bun, patty, cheese, patty, and cheese.
4. Top with a quarter of the peppers and onions and a nice helping of jalapeño ranch.
5. Finish with the top bun and enjoy this amazing southwest burger!