If you’re craving a burger that sings with tropical flair and juicy, savory flavors, look no further than this Hawaiian Burger Recipe. It’s a mouthwatering spin on the classic cheeseburger, starring sweet grilled pineapple, tender beef patties infused with soy and pineapple juice, and a finishing drizzle of teriyaki sauce that’ll have you dreaming of island sunsets. Every bite is satisfyingly rich, boldly tangy, and just a little adventurous—get ready to make this your summer grilling tradition!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hawaiian Burger Recipe lies in its fun simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role, bringing layers of taste, texture, and those pops of sunny color. Gather these essentials for an irresistible tropical burger experience.
- Ground beef (80/20): This blend offers the perfect balance of juicy flavor and just the right amount of richness for tender, mouthwatering burgers.
- Soy sauce: Adds a subtle, savory depth that echoes classic teriyaki notes and seasons the beef beautifully.
- Pineapple juice: Infuses the patties with a gentle sweetness and tropical tang—just a splash goes a long way.
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the flavors with a mild, aromatic note that lingers pleasantly in every bite.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the bold, fresh flavors happening inside this burger.
- Black pepper: Gives just the right tingle to balance the sweetness and build savory layers.
- Pineapple rings (fresh or canned): Grilled pineapple caramelizes on the outside and turns extra juicy—an absolute must for that iconic sweet-tart flavor.
- Swiss or provolone cheese: These melty cheeses melt luxuriously for a gooey layer that beautifully complements the tropical notes.
- Hamburger buns (toasted): A soft, lightly toasted bun soaks up all those amazing juices and adds a delicate crunch.
- Lettuce leaves: Fresh lettuce lends a crisp snap that contrasts the saucy, juicy burger perfectly.
- Tomato slices: Slices of ripe tomato offer juicy freshness and brighten the flavors.
- Red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a gentle bite and crunch, without overpowering the overall burger experience.
- Teriyaki sauce: The final drizzle, this sauce delivers irresistible, sticky-sweet-salty goodness.
- Mayonnaise (optional): For those who love a creamy element to smooth things out and balance big flavors.
How to Make Hawaiian Burger Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties
Begin by combining the ground beef, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix just until all the ingredients are incorporated—don’t overwork the meat so the patties stay tender. Shape the mixture into four even patties, then press a subtle indentation into the center of each one; this neat little trick helps the Hawaiian Burger Recipe cook evenly and avoids that classic burger bulge.
Step 2: Grill the Patties
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the hot surface and let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Don’t press down on them—retain those flavorful juices! In the last minute of cooking, crown each patty with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese, letting it get perfectly melty and luscious.
Step 3: Grill the Pineapple
While your patties finish up, pop the pineapple rings onto the grill (or skillet). Sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes, until the fruit turns lightly golden with lovely caramelized grill marks. Grilling intensifies the pineapple’s sweetness and brings a touch of smokiness—signature elements of any great Hawaiian Burger Recipe.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Give your hamburger buns a quick toasting, either on the grill or in a toaster, until they’re just golden at the edges. This simple step keeps the bread from getting soggy and adds a gentle crunch that plays nicely with the juicy burger fillings.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Now for the exciting part! If you love a little creaminess, spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves of your toasted buns. Layer on a fresh lettuce leaf, a slice of juicy tomato, and a few onion rings for a lively crunch. Next comes your cheesy burger patty, followed by a grilled pineapple ring. Brighten it up with a generous drizzle of teriyaki sauce, top it all off with the other half of the bun, and your Hawaiian Burger Recipe is ready to wow.
How to Serve Hawaiian Burger Recipe
Garnishes
Give your burgers a final flourish by sprinkling a few green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top of the pineapple for color and extra flavor. For a spicy kick, scatter some sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sriracha mayo over the patty—these garnishes bring both vibrancy and a hint of heat!
Side Dishes
Hawaiian Burger Recipe pairs brilliantly with sweet potato fries, classic potato chips, or even a colorful salad bursting with fresh pineapple and avocado. Don’t forget a side of crispy pickles or a cool slaw for a little crunch and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive, tropical feel, serve your burgers on a platter lined with banana leaves or palm fronds, and add some grilled pineapple and lime wedges on the side. Skewer a mini pineapple wedge or cherry on a cocktail pick and top each bun for a whimsical, party-ready look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra cooked patties or toppings, let them cool completely. Store the burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep your toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pineapple, and sauces) in separate containers to preserve their freshness and textures.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked beef patties (without toppings or cheese) for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between the patties and use a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain flavor and juiciness. Pineapple rings can also be frozen, but enjoy best when grilled fresh.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 8 to 10 minutes). Add the cheese during the last minute so it melts again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bun soggy—re-toast your buns for a renewed crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken for this Hawaiian Burger Recipe?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and ground chicken make fantastic, lighter alternatives. You may want to add a little extra pineapple juice to keep turkey or chicken patties moist and flavorful. Expect a slightly different texture, but the island magic will still shine through.
What’s the best way to grill pineapple if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
No grill? No problem. Use a grill pan or even a nonstick skillet on your stovetop. Sear pineapple rings over medium-high heat for 1 or 2 minutes per side until you see golden caramelized edges—easy and every bit as delicious!
Can this Hawaiian Burger Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free hamburger buns and double-check that your soy sauce and teriyaki sauce are certified gluten-free. With those simple substitutions, you’ll enjoy every bite worry-free.
Is it okay to use canned pineapple, or does it have to be fresh?
Canned pineapple rings work wonderfully and are ultra-convenient. Just be sure to drain them well so they don’t add extra moisture. Fresh pineapple adds a richer flavor, but both will caramelize beautifully when grilled.
What’s the secret to a juicy burger patty?
The key is to use 80/20 ground beef for enough fat to keep patties succulent, mix the seasonings gently, and avoid overcooking. That small thumbprint indentation in the middle? It helps the burger cook evenly and come out juicy every time!
Final Thoughts
Ready to add a little sunshine to your next meal? Give this Hawaiian Burger Recipe a whirl and watch how fast it becomes a go-to favorite for family dinners, backyard cookouts, or whenever you’re craving a wave of big, bold flavors. Your taste buds—and your friends—will thank you!
Print
Hawaiian Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Hawaiian Burger Recipe combines the flavors of the tropics with juicy beef patties, grilled pineapple, and teriyaki sauce, all sandwiched between toasted buns. A perfect blend of sweet and savory for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 4 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 slices tomato
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal patties.
- Cook the Patties: Grill or cook the patties in a skillet for 4–5 minutes per side. Add cheese during the last minute to melt. Grill pineapple rings for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, tomato, onion, patty, grilled pineapple, and teriyaki sauce. Top with the bun and serve.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or sriracha mayo.
- Turkey or veggie burgers can be used as a leaner alternative.
- Pair with sweet potato fries for a tropical-inspired meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
