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Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers bring together sweet pineapple juicy burgers and the salty tang of teriyaki all stacked on a pillowy bun. This recipe lets you enjoy a touch of the islands in your backyard and turns any cookout into an event. The first time I made these I was amazed how the grilled pineapple transforms the whole burger and now we never make burgers without it in the summer.
I was drawn to this recipe because Hawaiian rolls and pineapple always seemed made for burgers and I was right. These burgers disappeared so fast that I doubled the batch the very next time.
Ingredients
- Ground chuck: rich and juicy beef for a classic burger base look for a good fat ratio like eighty twenty for extra flavor
- Ground beef ham: adds a unique savory touch enhancing the burger’s meaty texture choose one that is fresh and not too salty
- Ginger paste: adds warmth and a subtle zing select a fresh paste from the refrigerated section for best taste
- Minced garlic: boosts umami and depth fresh garlic is best
- Salt: essential for enhancing every flavor use kosher or sea salt if possible
- Black pepper: sharpens the savory notes freshly ground gives the strongest flavor
- Kona Coast Island Teriyaki sauce or homemade: brings sweet and salty umami try a thick rich brand for best results
- Sambal chili paste: brings gentle heat and complexity use sparingly or skip for milder burgers
- Hawaiian sandwich rolls: soft and just sweet enough for a burger bun pick the freshest ones for max pillowy texture
- Red onion: sliced thin for tang and subtle crunch look for onions that feel firm not dried out
- Fresh pineapple: peeled and cored for juicy sweetness choose one that is golden fragrant and slightly soft to the touch
- Brown sugar: sprinkles onto pineapple for caramelization use light brown sugar for best melting and flavor
- Swiss cheese: creamy with a mild tang slices should be fresh and thick so they melt luxuriously
- Additional teriyaki sauce: for stacking and extra juiciness warm to drizzle easily
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix and Shape Patties:
- Combine ground chuck ground beef ham ginger paste minced garlic salt black pepper teriyaki sauce and sambal in a large bowl. Blend with your hands until well incorporated but do not overwork. Divide into even patties and press a shallow divot into the center of each which helps them cook flat
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Slice your red onion into rounds. Place them on a grill sheet and grill over medium heat until they turn deep golden and become meltingly soft. Give them enough time about ten minutes and turn as needed so every side caramelizes
- Grill the Pineapple:
- Cut your fresh pineapple into thick rings and sprinkle each with a pinch of brown sugar. Grill slices over direct heat flipping once until you see grill marks and the edges are golden and caramelized. Let them rest on a plate
- Grill the Burger Patties:
- Place your shaped patties onto the grill and cook over medium high heat. As they cook baste generously with more teriyaki sauce to build layers of flavor. Flip once when the bottom gets a good sear and grill to your preferred doneness. Add sliced Swiss cheese over each patty during the last minute and close the lid to melt
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Split your Hawaiian rolls and warm briefly on the grill to make them soft and lightly toasty. Layer each with a hot cheesy patty a caramelized pineapple ring and a heap of grilled onions. Drizzle with more teriyaki sauce before closing with the top bun and serving hot
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Watching friends and family stack up their burgers exactly the way they like is always a highlight. My favorite part is the grilled pineapple its sweetness always wows everyone and takes the burger from good to unforgettable.
Storage Tips
If you have leftover cooked patties let them cool completely and wrap tightly then store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Pineapple and caramelized onions can go into a separate airtight container. Assemble the burgers fresh each time you eat for best flavor and texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find ground beef ham swap in a second portion of ground chuck or regular ground beef. No Swiss cheese Use provolone or mozzarella for a similarly melty result. Bottled teriyaki sauce works but homemade lets you tailor the sweetness and salt to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers with classic potato chips or a Hawaiian macaroni salad for a true taste of the islands. They are perfect for picnics and summer parties and taste great with extra teriyaki for dipping.
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Cultural Context
Hawaiian burgers are inspired by Hawaii’s multicultural food scene where Asian and American flavors mix freely. The combo of pineapple and teriyaki is a classic for a reason and gives each bite a sunny tropical twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular beef if I don't have ground beef ham?
Yes, you can substitute ground chuck or another ground beef blend. The beef ham adds extra flavor, but the burgers will still be delicious.
- → What cheese would work instead of Swiss?
Provolone or Monterey Jack both melt nicely and pair well with the sweet-savory flavors in the burgers.
- → Can I cook these burgers without a grill?
Absolutely! Use a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet for great results and caramelization.
- → How spicy is the sambal chili paste?
Sambal adds a moderate heat. Adjust the amount to taste, or omit it if you prefer a milder burger.
- → What side dishes pair well with these burgers?
Serve with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors.