Hawaiian Burger Recipe

Have you ever tried a Hawaiian burger? It’s one of those delicious combinations that you’ll keep coming back to. Sweet pineapple, savory beef, and a bit of tangy sauce — trust me, it’s a flavor explosion!

I’ve made this burger so many times, and every single bite feels like a mini vacation. The juicy pineapple and melted cheese just take it to a whole new level. You’ll see, this burger will quickly become a favorite in your house too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavors: The tangy pineapple, paired with the sweetness of teriyaki sauce, offers a burst of tropical taste.
• Savory and Sweet: The combination of juicy beef, gooey mozzarella, and teriyaki sauce is irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, these burgers are ready in no time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients in advance for an easy weeknight meal or BBQ party.
• Customizable: Add more toppings or spices to suit your taste. You can even swap out the beef for chicken or turkey.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

• Prep Time & Cook Time:
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: This recipe yields 4 delicious burgers, perfect for serving a small family or group. You can easily double or triple the recipe for a larger crowd.
• Difficulty: This recipe is beginner-friendly. Even if you’re new to cooking burgers, you’ll find this process simple and rewarding!

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you begin cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:

• Grill or Stovetop Pan: For cooking the burger patties and grilling the pineapple and onions.
• Spatula or Tongs: For flipping the burgers and removing the grilled pineapple and onions.
• Knife: To slice the onions and pineapple.
• Bowl: For mixing the seasoning and soy sauce with the ground beef.

Ingredients for the Hawaiian Burger

To bring this sweet and savory burger to life, here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1 pound 80/20 ground beef: The perfect ratio of fat to meat ensures juicy, flavorful patties.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth to the beef and complements the teriyaki sauce.
• 1 bottle teriyaki sauce, divided: Used both for marinating the beef and glazing the burger patties.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a subtle warmth that enhances the teriyaki flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt: To season the beef patties and enhance the overall flavor.
• 1 can sliced pineapple, drained: The sweet, tangy pineapple adds a juicy element to the burger.
• 1 large red onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings: These rings bring a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch to the burger.
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese: Melty mozzarella complements the other flavors and adds a creamy texture.
• 4 burger buns: Soft, fresh buns that hold everything together and add the final touch.

Variations for the Hawaiian Burger

One of the best parts of making burgers is how easy it is to customize them to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to take your Hawaiian Burger to the next level:

• Use Chicken or Turkey: If you prefer poultry over beef, swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs just as well with these leaner options.
• Add More Heat: For a spicy twist, add some sliced jalapeños or use a spicy teriyaki sauce. This will bring a kick to the burger that complements the sweet and savory flavors.
• Try Different Cheeses: If mozzarella isn’t your thing, feel free to use provolone, cheddar, or even a smoky gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Swap Pineapple for Mango: If you’re looking for something a little different, swap out the pineapple for fresh mango slices. The natural sweetness and tang of mango work wonderfully with the teriyaki.
• Add Bacon: For a smoky, salty crunch, add some crispy bacon on top of the burger before adding the cheese. It’s a great addition that brings even more flavor to each bite.

How to Make Hawaiian Burger Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make the Hawaiian Burger that’s sure to become a family favorite!

1. Prepare the Beef Patties

Start by mixing the ground beef with soy sauce, ground ginger, and garlic salt in a bowl. Use your hands to gently combine the ingredients, but be careful not to overwork the meat, which could make the patties tough. Once combined, divide the mixture into 4 even portions and shape them into burger patties.

2. Grill the Pineapple and Onion

While the patties are being formed, preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the grates or pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add the pineapple rings and onion slices to the grill. Cook the pineapple for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear. Grill the onion rings for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re tender and slightly charred. Set the grilled pineapple and onion aside.

3. Cook the Beef Patties

Now, it’s time to cook the patties. If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium heat (375-450°F). Place the beef patties on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If you prefer using a stovetop pan, heat it over medium-high heat, and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking so it has time to melt.

4. Assemble the Hawaiian Burgers

Now that everything is cooked, it’s time to put it all together. Start by placing a grilled pineapple ring and a grilled onion ring on the bottom half of each burger bun. Place the cooked beef patty with melted mozzarella cheese on top. Drizzle a bit of teriyaki sauce on the patty for added flavor. Finally, top with the other half of the bun.

How to Serve Hawaiian Burger

These Hawaiian Burgers are perfect for serving at any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to weekend BBQs. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy them:

• With Fries: Serve these burgers with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries for the ultimate burger meal.
• With Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the juicy, flavorful burger, adding a refreshing contrast.
• On a Salad: For a lighter option, serve the burger patties on a bed of greens with some extra pineapple and teriyaki sauce for a tropical salad.
• As a Burger Bowl: Skip the bun and serve the patty with pineapple, onions, and cheese over a bowl of rice for a delicious and filling meal.
• With Chips: A side of kettle-cooked chips or tortilla chips adds the perfect crunchy accompaniment to your burger.

Storing Hawaiian Burger

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Cooked Patties: Store the leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat them, gently reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep them moist.
• Grilled Pineapple and Onions: Keep the grilled pineapple and onions in a separate airtight container in the fridge. These will stay fresh for 2-3 days and can be reheated with the patties or added to salads and other dishes.
• Burger Buns: If you have extra buns, store them in a sealed bag or container to prevent them from going stale. You can also freeze them for longer storage, and simply toast them when you’re ready to use them.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Hawaiian Burger turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overmix the Beef: When combining the beef with the seasonings, mix gently. Overworking the meat can lead to tough burgers.
• Check the Temperature of the Patties: If you’re unsure if the beef patties are done, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F.
• Grill or Sear the Patties: To get the best flavor and texture, either grill the patties for a smoky flavor or sear them in a pan to get a crispy exterior.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the buns on the grill or in a pan for extra flavor and a sturdier base for the toppings.
• Keep the Toppings Warm: If you want everything to be hot and ready at the same time, you can briefly cover the cooked patties with foil to keep them warm while you grill the pineapple and onions.

Nutrition Information (Optional)

Here’s a general overview of the nutritional content for one Hawaiian Burger (without sides):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500
Protein	30-35g
Fat	25-30g
Carbohydrates	30-35g
Fiber	2-3g
Sugar	12-15g
Sodium	700-900mg

Hawaiian Burger FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the Hawaiian Burger?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef patties and marinate them in the fridge for up to 8 hours. You can also grill the pineapple and onions in advance and store them in the fridge.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well with this recipe, especially if you’re looking for a leaner option.

4. What if I don’t have a grill?
You can easily cook the patties and grill the pineapple and onion on a stovetop pan. Just be sure to get a good sear on the patties and use medium-high heat to grill the fruits and veggies.

5. Can I make this a vegetarian option?
Yes, you could replace the beef patty with a veggie burger or a grilled portobello mushroom for a vegetarian version of this burger.

Conclusion

These Hawaiian Burgers bring a fun and flavorful twist to the classic burger. The combination of savory beef, sweet pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and melty mozzarella creates a truly delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a BBQ, or just craving something different, this recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to suit your taste.