Hawaiian Burger Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your burger game and add a tropical twist to your next meal, look no further than this Hawaiian Burger recipe! Juicy, flavorful beef patties are topped with a sweet and tangy combination of grilled pineapple, savory ham, and melted cheese, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun. This burger is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with the caramelized pineapple adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat and cheese. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, hosting a cookout, or just craving something new, the Hawaiian Burger is sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, this burger is a great option for both casual family dinners and more festive gatherings. You can customize it by adding your favorite sauces, extra veggies, or even swapping out the beef patty for a chicken or veggie option. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and the way it brings a little bit of the tropics to your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tropical Flavor

The combination of grilled pineapple and savory ham gives this burger a unique sweet and savory flavor that’s a refreshing change from the usual burger toppings.

2. Easy to Make

With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, this burger is quick and easy to put together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.

3. Customizable

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, add extra veggies, or swap the beef patty for chicken or a veggie burger to suit your taste.

4. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love the delicious, juicy burger topped with sweet pineapple and savory ham. It’s a fun and tasty twist on a classic!

5. Perfect for Grilling

Whether you’re using a grill or stovetop, the caramelized pineapple and seared burger patties make this dish perfect for summer cookouts or indoor grilling sessions.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey for a lighter version)
• Ham slices (preferably thin and cooked)
• Fresh pineapple rings
• Hamburger buns
• Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional, for extra crunch and flavor)
• Teriyaki sauce or BBQ sauce (optional, for an extra glaze)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

• Chicken Hawaiian Burger: Swap the beef patty for a grilled chicken breast for a lighter, poultry-based version of this burger.
• Veggie Hawaiian Burger: Use a veggie burger patty or portobello mushroom cap in place of the meat for a delicious plant-based option.
• Cheese Options: Try using cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add Avocado: Top the burger with slices of creamy avocado for an extra layer of richness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to the burger for extra veggies and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by seasoning your ground beef with salt and pepper to taste. Shape the meat into burger patties, making sure they’re about the size of your buns.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Grill the fresh pineapple rings over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they have grill marks and are slightly caramelized. Set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

Grill or pan-fry the burger patties over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Add a slice of cheese to each burger during the last minute of cooking to melt it.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread your choice of sauce (teriyaki or BBQ sauce) on the bottom of each toasted bun. Place the cooked burger patty on top, followed by a slice of ham, a grilled pineapple ring, and a slice of cheese. Add any optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion.

Step 6: Serve

Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately with a side of fries, chips, or a salad. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Season the Beef Well

Make sure to season your beef patty with enough salt and pepper to bring out its natural flavor. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra seasoning.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pineapple

Grill the pineapple until it’s caramelized but still juicy. Overcooking can cause it to dry out.

3. Use Fresh Pineapple

Fresh pineapple gives the best texture and flavor. Canned pineapple might be too soft and overly sweet, making it harder to grill.

4. Toast the Buns for Extra Flavor

Toast your buns lightly to add flavor and prevent them from getting soggy from the sauces and juices.

5. Customize with Sauce

For extra flavor, brush your burger with teriyaki or BBQ sauce before assembling. You can also drizzle some on the grilled pineapple for extra sweetness.

How to Serve

These Hawaiian burgers are perfect for serving with crispy fries, a refreshing coleslaw, or a simple side salad. You can also pair them with sweet potato fries for a slightly healthier twist. For a tropical touch, serve with a chilled pineapple or mango smoothie on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover cooked burgers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The grilled pineapple can be stored in the same container.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked patties for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store them in a freezer-safe bag. To freeze grilled pineapple, place the rings in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the burgers and pineapple in a skillet over low heat, or microwave them for about 1-2 minutes. Toast the buns fresh for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef for the patty?

Yes! A grilled chicken breast works great as a substitute for the beef patty, and it pairs well with the sweet pineapple.

2. Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is ideal for grilling, but if you don’t have access to fresh pineapple, canned pineapple rings will work as a substitute. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly.

3. Can I make this recipe with a veggie burger patty?

Absolutely! A veggie burger or a grilled portobello mushroom cap would be a great substitute for the meat patty, and they pair well with the other ingredients.

4. What type of cheese is best for Hawaiian burgers?

Swiss cheese is commonly used, but you can also use cheddar, provolone, or even gouda for a different flavor.

5. Can I make this burger without ham?

While the ham adds a savory touch, you can skip it if you prefer. The burger will still be delicious with just the beef, pineapple, and cheese.

6. Can I make this burger ahead of time?

You can prepare the burger patties, grilled pineapple, and other toppings ahead of time, then assemble the burgers just before serving.

7. Can I use a different type of sauce?

Yes! Teriyaki sauce is traditional for this burger, but you can swap it with BBQ sauce, ranch, or even a spicy mayo for a different flavor profile.

8. What sides go well with Hawaiian burgers?

Fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad all make great sides for Hawaiian burgers.

9. Can I make this recipe with a vegetarian sausage or tofu?

Yes, you can replace the meat patty with vegetarian sausage, tofu, or a plant-based burger to make it vegetarian or vegan.

10. How can I make this burger spicier?

If you like spice, add a slice of jalapeño to the burger or drizzle it with some spicy sriracha sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Burger is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and juicy, bringing the flavors of a tropical island right to your plate. Whether you’re cooking on the grill or using a stovetop, this burger is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of paradise in every bite!

Print