Grilled Pineapple Burgers
Juicy grilled beef burgers with sweet pineapple and smoky bacon, enhanced by a tangy barbecue glaze—perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, Italian salad dressing, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 8 patties, each about 3 inches in diameter.
- Press a slice of drained pineapple into the center of each patty.
- Wrap each patty with a slice of bacon and secure with a wooden pick.
- Mix barbecue sauce, brown sugar, honey, and lemon juice in a bowl to make the barbecue glaze.
- Place the prepared patties in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch dish.
- Pour the barbecue mixture over the patties, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to marinate.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the patties with pineapple sides down, about 4 inches from hot coals, for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Turn the patties over and brush with the barbecue mixture.
- Continue grilling for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Heat the remaining barbecue mixture and serve alongside the grilled burgers.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also experiment with different salad dressings, like ranch or Caesar. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the brown sugar or honey. Ensure the bacon is crispy to complement the juicy burgers. If grilling isn't an option, you can bake them at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers on toasted brioche buns with a side of coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a delightful meal. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables can complement the dish well. For a twist, try pairing them with a refreshing fruit salsa. They also pair beautifully with American recipes for summer barbecues.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled pineapple burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for quicker heating, though the texture may vary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Pineapple Burgers contains roughly 199 calories, with 10g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1140mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple slices can be used for a fresher taste. Just make sure to grill them until they are caramelized for the best flavor. The sweetness of fresh pineapple will enhance the overall profile of the burgers.
How can I make these burgers spicier?
To add some heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the ground beef mixture. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce or add hot sauce to the glaze for an extra kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
What sides go well with grilled pineapple burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with classic sides like potato salad or corn on the cob. For a lighter option, consider serving with a cucumber salad or grilled asparagus. Feel free to browse more American recipes for complementary dishes to create a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).