Pesto Burger Barbeque

This is a great burger for 4th of July weekend or any barbeque night. Here's where quality fresh ingredients really count. Thick peppered bacon from the butcher's area, sliced swiss cheese from the deli, carmelized onions, and my new favorite mix-in ingredient: pesto.  The pesto makes the ground meat very moist and flavorful. Finally, remember to toast your hamburger buns and you will have a perfect burger to devour! Pair it with Calico Baked Beans for a great barbeque.Check out more recipes at Tempt myTummy Tues, Tasty Tuesday, Tuesday Tastes and Tues at the Table.Also check out the Grocery Cart Challenge.

Pesto Bacon Burger

2 pounds ground chuck, chilled
1/2 tsp Sea salt
1/2 - 1 tsp black pepper
1/3 cup favorite pesto (more for spreading on buns)
sliced swiss cheese
peppered bacon
sweet onion
hamburger buns

In a bowl, mix the hamburger meat, pesto, salt and pepper. Divide the meat into shaped patties and chill in fridge till ready to use (can prepare several hours ahead or overnight). Cook the bacon in a frying pan. Drain grease, then place sliced sweet onions in pan. Sprinkle with brown sugar, stirring occasionally until onions are soft and carmelized. Grill hamburgers for 7-10 minutes to desired doneness. For the last minute or two of cooking, drape a slice of swiss cheese over each burger to melt. Add hamburger buns to grill.To serve,  spread the bun bottoms with pesto. Top with hamburger, caramelized onions and bacon. If desired, spread a little mayo on the top bun. Enjoy!