Description
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Burger
Juicy, charred, and bursting with tropical flavors—this Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Burger is the perfect mix of sweet and smoky! Caramelized pineapple, melty cheddar, and a thick beef patty slathered in rich teriyaki sauce make this burger unforgettable!
You’ll Need:
4 burger buns, toasted
1 lb ground beef
4 slices cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
4 pineapple slices, grilled
½ cup teriyaki sauce
½ teaspoon salt & pepper
Add jalapeños for a spicy twist! Would you try this tropical masterpiece?
#TropicalBite
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix and form into four equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your buns as they will shrink.
3. Brush the pineapple slices lightly with a small amount of teriyaki sauce. Place the pineapple and the beef patties on the hot grill.
4. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
5. Grill the pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side until they have distinct grill marks and are caramelized.
6. While the patties cook, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill for about 30-60 seconds.
7. To assemble, place a cheesy patty on the bottom bun. Top with a grilled pineapple slice, then generously drizzle with teriyaki sauce. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw. For a complete tropical theme, pair with a chilled glass of iced tea or a light lager. Serving the extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping is highly recommended.
How-to Summary
Season beef, form patties, and grill alongside pineapple slices brushed with teriyaki. Add cheese to melt on the patties near the end, toast the buns, then assemble with pineapple and extra sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or even a firm plant-based patty work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I prevent the burgers from sticking? Ensure your grill grates are clean, hot, and lightly oiled before adding the patties.
Can I make the teriyaki sauce from scratch? Absolutely. A simple mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a cornstarch slurry simmered until thickened is perfect.
What if I don’t have a grill? A stovetop grill pan or even a regular skillet over medium-high heat will work for both the pineapple and the patties.
How can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free tamari instead of standard teriyaki sauce and ensure your buns are certified gluten-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the beef, which leads to tough, dense patties.
- Pressing down on the patties with a spatula while grilling, which squeezes out precious juices.
- Using pineapple slices that are too thin, as they can burn or become mushy on the grill.
- Applying teriyaki sauce too early during grilling, as the sugar can cause excessive burning.
Conclusion
This Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Burger is a standout recipe that masterfully balances sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers a gourmet, restaurant-quality experience perfect for summer barbecues or anytime you crave a tropical escape. Don’t forget the extra sauce!
