Introduction
When you think of summer barbecues, nothing brings a smile quite like a juicy cheeseburger. But what if you could elevate that classic experience with a tropical twist? Enter the Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger—a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors that transports you straight to the islands.
This burger features a perfectly grilled beef patty topped with barbecue sauce, sweet grilled pineapple, and creamy cheese, all nestled within a soft bun. It's an easy yet impressive dish that will make your next cookout unforgettable.
Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger is sure to satisfy. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready for a flavor adventure!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch rings
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form the meat into 4 equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
- Brush the pineapple rings with olive oil and set them aside.
- Once the grill is hot, place the burger patties on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them over.
- Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty after flipping. Grill for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach your desired doneness.
- While the burgers are cooking, place the pineapple rings on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they become caramelized and have grill marks.
- To assemble, spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a burger patty on top, followed by a grilled pineapple ring. Drizzle barbecue sauce over the pineapple and add the top half of the bun.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, serve hot, and enjoy your Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger!
FAQs
What kind of beef is best for the patties?
An 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal for juicy and flavorful burgers.
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, canned pineapple can be used in a pinch; just ensure it's well-drained.
What if my burgers are overcooked?
To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer; aim for 160°F for medium doneness.
Can I substitute the cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Swiss or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
What if I want a spicier burger?
Add sliced jalapeños on top of the pineapple or mix hot sauce into the mayonnaise for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef patty with a grilled veggie burger or portobello mushroom.
How can I make the barbecue sauce from scratch?
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices to create your own barbecue sauce.
What if my pineapple slices are too thick?
If they are too thick, they may not grill evenly; aim for 1-inch thick slices for the best results.
Conclusion
The Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger is a delightful twist on the classic that brings together a variety of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple, combined with the savory beef and smoky barbecue sauce, creates a perfect balance that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you're grilling for a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this burger is sure to impress. So, fire up the grill and enjoy a taste of Hawaii right in your backyard!
Recipe Card
Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 fresh pineapple cut into 1-inch rings
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form the meat into 4 equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
- Brush the pineapple rings with olive oil and set them aside.
- Once the grill is hot, place the burger patties on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them over.
- Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty after flipping. Grill for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach your desired doneness.
- While the burgers are cooking, place the pineapple rings on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they become caramelized and have grill marks.
- To assemble, spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a burger patty on top, followed by a grilled pineapple ring. Drizzle barbecue sauce over the pineapple and add the top half of the bun.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, serve hot, and enjoy your Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger!
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
