Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef2 pounds ground pork1/2 cup panko bread crumbs1/2 cup finely chopped red onion3 tablespoons minced fresh basil2 teaspoons smoked paprika1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon pepper3/4 cup finely chopped fresh pineapple3/4 cup barbecue sauce12 bacon strips, cooked and crumbledSliced Jarlsberg cheese, optional12 hamburger buns, splitOptional: additional barbecue sauce, chopped red onion and fresh basil.
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 24 thin patties. Divide pineapple, barbecue sauce and bacon over center of 12 patties; top with remaining patties, pressing edges firmly to seal. Refrigerate, covered, for 1 hour.
Grill burgers, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from heat until a thermometer reads 160°, 7-8 minutes on each side. If desired, top with cheese; grill, covered, until cheese is melted, 1-2 minutes longer. Serve on buns and, if desired, top with additional barbecue sauce, red onion and fresh basil.
