When the sun starts to set, casting a warm glow over the barbecue, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of grilling up something special. Recently, I discovered the joy of Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple—a delightful twist on the classic burger that transports me straight to a tropical paradise with each bite. Picture this: juicy, flavorful beef patties slathered in rich teriyaki sauce, topped with sweet, caramelized pineapple and sharp red onion. The harmony of flavors is simply irresistible!
These burgers are perfect for a summer cookout or even a cozy weeknight dinner, bringing a refreshing vibrancy that makes every meal feel like a celebration. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to spice up your grilling routine, this recipe is your ticket to a juicy, crowd-pleasing delight that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple a game changer?
Tropical Bliss: These burgers transport you to the islands with their sweet and savory flavor profile, making every bite a mini-vacation.
Easy Prep: The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your burger with grilled veggies or unique cheeses to cater to any palate, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
Crowd Favorite: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a casual dinner, these burgers are sure to impress guests and family alike!
Quick Cleanup: With everything cooked on the grill, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying.
These Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers are not just a meal; they elevate any occasion!
Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create these delicious Hawaiian teriyaki burgers!
For the Patties
- Ground Beef – This is your main protein; opt for 93% or 80% lean for the juiciest results.
- Panko – Adds a delightful texture to the patties; feel free to substitute with breadcrumbs if you’re in a pinch.
- Teriyaki Sauce – Infuses your patties with flavor and moisture; you can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust according to your personal taste.
For Assembly
- Sesame Seed Buns – A classic choice for burgers; whole wheat buns can offer a healthier alternative.
- Pineapple Slices – The sweet star of the show! Grilling enhances their flavor, but fresh or canned works too.
- Red Onion – Brings a sharp contrast; slice into rings for an added crunch; use sweet onion to dial down the flavor.
- Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess; feel free to swap with Swiss or pepper jack for a twist.
- Butter Lettuce – Fresh and crunchy, perfect for that refreshing bite; romaine can be a tasty substitute.
Extras
- Extra Teriyaki Sauce – Drizzle this on your assembled burger for an extra burst of flavor; it’s a great way to enhance the Hawaiian teriyaki burgers experience!
How to Make Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
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Preheat Grill: Start by preheating your grill or grill pan, lightly greased with oil over medium heat. You want it sizzlin’ hot for those juicy burgers!
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture.
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Shape Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Press an indent in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly!
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Grill Patties: Place the patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust for your desired doneness. If you’re adding cheese, place it on top during the last minute.
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Grill Pineapple and Onion: On the same grill, add pineapple and red onion slices. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are beautifully charred and caramelized.
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Toast Buns (Optional): If you like, toast the buns face down on the grill for about 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and warm.
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Assemble Your Burgers: Layer your burger with butter lettuce, the grilled patty, onion, pineapple, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce on the bottom bun. Cap it off with the top bun and enjoy while hot!
Optional: Top with jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the burger patties up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ground beef, panko, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper, then shaping them into patties. Store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The grilled pineapple and onion can also be sliced a day ahead, just make sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply grill the prepared patties for a few minutes, grill the pre-sliced pineapple and onion, toast the buns if desired, and assemble for a quick, delicious meal that tastes just as amazing as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
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Indent for Even Cooking: Pressing an indent into the beef patties ensures they cook evenly and don’t puff up on the grill.
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Cheese Timing: Add provolone cheese during the last minute of cooking to achieve that perfect melt; let the patties rest for a moment before assembling.
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Adjust Grilling Time: Keep an eye on the thickness of your patties; grilling times may vary based on personal preference for doneness.
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Grill with Flavor: For a smoky, richer taste, try adding BBQ sauce alongside the teriyaki or substitute it entirely for an exciting twist on traditional Hawaiian teriyaki burgers.
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Don’t Skip the Pineapple: Grilling pineapple slices not only enhances their sweetness but also adds that lovely caramelized flavor, crucial for an authentic burger experience.
Storage Tips for Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple
Fridge: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat burgers on a grill or stovetop over low heat until warmed through. This helps preserve their juicy texture while keeping the flavors intact.
Leftover Toppings: Keep any grilled pineapple or onions separate in the fridge and use within 3 days for the best taste!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple?
To create a truly memorable meal, think of vibrant sides that complement the tropical flavors of your burger.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness balances the savory burger while adding a satisfying crunch; a delicious nod to classic fast food.
- Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing, creamy slaw brings a zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the burger, enhancing each bite.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn brushed with butter adds a delightful char; it’s the summer side that everyone loves.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries brightens up the meal with their acidity and natural sweetness.
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Earthy and savory, these tender mushrooms add a rich flavor contrast that harmonizes well with the teriyaki.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea: A vibrant, floral drink that’s refreshing and slightly sweet, perfect for washing down that juicy burger.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy, lightly sweet rice enhances the tropical vibe while providing a satisfying base that pairs beautifully with savory elements.
- Chilled Avocado Soup: Silky and refreshing, this cool soup serves as an elegant starter that’s also light on the palate before your main event.
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake: End your meal with a twist on a classic dessert that echoes the flavors of your burger, sweet and delightful!
Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity by customizing these delightful burgers to suit your taste!
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Turkey Twist: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter, yet just as flavorful option. The juicy turkey will still shine alongside that sweet pineapple.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and portobello mushrooms as a hearty, meatless substitute. They’ll soak up all the wonderful flavors of teriyaki!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dollop of spicy aioli on top for an added kick! This twist brings a delightful heat that perfectly balances the sweet and savory elements.
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Gourmet Cheese: Instead of provolone, dream up unique cheese combinations such as spicy pepper jack or tangy feta. Each cheese adds its own charm and depth to your burger experience.
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Whole Wheat Option: Opt for whole wheat buns for a healthier alternative without skimping on flavor. They provide a nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki sauce.
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Tropical Fruit Medley: Try swapping grilled pineapple for grilled mango or peach slices to introduce a new layer of sweetness. The caramelization of these fruits will keep the tropical vibes alive and well!
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Extra Crunch: Include crispy fried onions or shredded cabbage for an exciting texture variation. The added crunch will complement the tenderness of the beef and the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.
Dare to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature Hawaiian teriyaki burger masterpiece!
Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the patties?
For the juiciest results, I recommend using ground beef that is either 93% or 80% lean. The higher fat content helps keep the burgers moist and flavorful during grilling, preventing them from drying out.
How do I store leftovers from Hawaiian teriyaki burgers?
Cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing them to keep them fresh and avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze these burgers? How?
Absolutely! Wrap each cooled burger tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the grill or stovetop until warmed through.
Why is my burger not cooking evenly?
To ensure even cooking, press an indent in the center of each patty before grilling. This allows for uniform airflow and heat distribution. If they’re still struggling, consider adjusting the grilling time based on thickness, and check the heat level of your grill to ensure it’s not too hot.
Can I use different toppings or variations?
The toppings are fully customizable! You can use grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option or even swap the provolone cheese for Swiss or pepper jack to mix up the flavors. Adding jalapeños or spicy aioli is another great way to cater to different preferences and spice levels.
Is there anything I should consider regarding allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes! Make sure to check for allergies related to gluten in the panko or buns if you are using them. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and choose gluten-free buns. Also, if there are dairy concerns, omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Savor Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties.
- Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes on one side, flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Grill pineapple and onion slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Toast the buns face down on the grill for about 2 minutes.
- Layer your burger: lettuce, patty, onion, pineapple, and extra teriyaki sauce.