Teriyaki Burgers Grilled Pineapple

This juicy teriyaki burger recipe brings together the sweet tang of pineapple, a deeply savory homemade sauce, and moist turkey patties for an irresistible taste of summer. The grilled pineapple and red onion give brightness and character, transforming simple burgers into something special that always wins rave reviews at my backyard cookouts.

The first time I served these burgers for friends, everyone wanted the recipe and even the picky eaters went back for seconds. Now it is my go to for every summer gathering.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey ninety three percent lean: keeps the patties tender and lower in fat Look for brightly colored meat with no gray spots
• Whole wheat panko bread crumbs: help bind the burgers while adding a subtle nutty flavor Choose fresh crumbs for best texture
• Fresh garlic finely minced: wakes up the flavor Use plump cloves that feel heavy for their size
• Fresh ginger: adds spicy brightness Choose firm pieces with smooth skin
• Ground black pepper: gives mild heat Grind fresh for best fragrance
• Chopped cilantro: fresh and herby flavor Pick leaves that are crisp and bright green for optimal taste
• Canned pineapple in rings: adds sweetness while its juice becomes the base of the sauce Go for rings packed in juice not syrup
• Red onion: thick slices offer caramelized bite when grilled Pick onions with shiny tight skins
• Whole wheat hamburger buns: deliver wholesome flavor and a sturdy base Choose buns that bounce back when gently squeezed

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• Reserved pineapple juice from the can: adds tangy depth
• Low sodium soy sauce: brings a savory backbone Use Japanese style when possible
• Rice vinegar: provides gentle acidity Check for clear color and mild aroma
• Honey: balances the tang and umami Opt for local or mild honey for smoothest taste
• Minced garlic: for aromatic depth use a fresh clove
• Minced fresh ginger: lifts the sauce with fresh spice
• Cornstarch: thickens the sauce creating a glaze Choose a brand that dissolves easily

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Teriyaki Sauce:

Gently heat the reserved pineapple juice soy sauce rice vinegar honey garlic and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat and cover until it starts to boil This step ensures all flavors are extracted without burning

Thicken the Sauce:

Once the sauce is boiling remove the lid Stir constantly for one minute then add a cornstarch slurry made by whisking cornstarch with water Keep stirring and cook until the sauce visibly thickens in about one minute Remove from heat so it maintains its glossy texture

Mix and Shape the Burgers:

In a large bowl combine the ground turkey panko fresh garlic ginger black pepper cilantro and three tablespoons of the teriyaki sauce Gently mix with your hands until just combined Take care not to squeeze or overmix or the burgers will be tough Shape into four chunky patties about three fourths of an inch thick then chill for thirty minutes to firm the meat

Grill the Toppings:

Preheat your grill to medium high and oil the grates Arrange the pineapple rings and thick red onion slices on the grill Let each sear for about three minutes per side for the pineapple and four minutes for the onion until they look caramelized and softened Remove and set aside

Grill the Burgers:

Lay the chilled patties on the grill Cook for four minutes on the first side then flip and brush generously with some teriyaki sauce Grill another four minutes flip again and repeat brushing with more sauce Continue grilling until the center reads one hundred sixty to one hundred sixty five degrees and juices run clear This step develops deep grill flavor and helps the sauce cling

Rest and Serve:

Place cooked patties on a plate and cover with foil letting them rest for five minutes to reabsorb juices This is when the burgers stay at their juiciest If desired toast the buns directly on the grill for a minute

Assemble the Burgers:

Layer each bun with a turkey patty plenty of reserved teriyaki sauce grilled pineapple and a big slice of caramelized red onion Enjoy immediately while the flavors are vibrant

Bookmark

My favorite part is always the grilled pineapple It brings a juicy punch that feels like sunshine and reminds me of the burger shacks I visited on a trip to Maui with my family We still talk about that meal every time I make these

Storage tips

Keep leftover patties refrigerated for up to three days Wrap tightly and reheat in a skillet or microwave Grilled pineapple and onions hold well in a sealed container and stay flavorful Use fresh buns on the day of serving for best texture

Ingredient substitutions

If you prefer ground chicken over turkey it works just as well Gluten free panko can be swapped if needed For a shortcut you can use store bought teriyaki sauce but homemade tastes fresher and lets you control the sweetness For the pineapple fresh rings grilled from scratch offer extra flair

Serving suggestions

Serve burgers alongside a crisp slaw or roasted sweet potato wedges For a party try sliders using mini buns and top with extra cilantro Serve extra teriyaki sauce for dipping As a bonus the leftover sauce is delicious spooned over grilled veggies or rice bowls

Bookmark

Cultural and historical context

Teriyaki is a traditional Japanese cooking technique and sauce using soy sake mirin and sugar Hawaiian versions often blend Japanese flavors with local pineapple and ginger creating a truly fusion style taste The burger itself is an American backyard classic so this recipe is a flavorful mashup of world culinary traditions I love how it represents a joyful blending of cultures

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute beef for the poultry in these burgers?

Yes, ground beef works well and will offer a richer flavor. Adjust grilling time to ensure thorough cooking.

→ How do I keep the burgers juicy and tender?

Use lean ground poultry, avoid over-mixing, and add panko and sauce to help retain moisture.

→ What’s the best way to grill the pineapple?

Grill pineapple rings over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side until caramelized and golden.

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely. Slice fresh pineapple into rings and grill as directed. Reserve juice if possible for the glaze.

→ What buns pair best with these burgers?

Whole wheat buns add nutty flavor and hold up well with juicy toppings and sauces.

→ Is the teriyaki sauce very sweet?

The sauce is balanced, featuring honey and pineapple juice for sweetness with soy and vinegar for savory tang.