A juicy beef burger glazed with tangy BBQ sauce, topped with melted cheese, grilled pineapple, and optional smoked ham—this tropical-inspired creation delivers sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This burger fuses classic comfort with exotic flair. The grilled pineapple adds natural sweetness and acidity, while BBQ sauce and cheese bring depth and richness. It’s a fun twist on the traditional burger—ideal for summer cookouts or any time you crave a bold, satisfying sandwich.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (80/20 blend)
Salt
Ground black pepper
BBQ sauce
Pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)
Cheese slices (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss)
Burger buns (brioche or standard)
Optional: smoked ham or Canadian bacon
Butter or oil (for toasting buns)
Optional garnishes: lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles

directions

Prepare patties: Form ground beef into patties slightly larger than buns. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Grill pineapple: Brush pineapple rings with a bit of oil; grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until char lines form. Remove and keep warm.
Grill patties: Brush patties with BBQ sauce and cook on the grill (or skillet) for about 4–5 minutes per side, basting once more with sauce near the end.
Add cheese & ham (optional): Place a slice of cheese (and ham if using) on each patty in the final minute. Close lid to melt.
Toast buns: Lightly butter or oil the cut sides of buns and toast on the grill or skillet until golden.
Assemble: Spread extra BBQ sauce on the bottom bun, add the patty with melting cheese and ham, then top with a grilled pineapple ring. Add desired garnishes and the top bun.
Serve immediately with fries, slaw, or a crisp salad.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 burgers
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25 minutes

Variations

Teriyaki twist: Replace BBQ sauce with teriyaki for an umami-rich alternative.
Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or apply a chipotle mayo to spice it up.
Avocado upgrade: Layer sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess.
Pineapple swap: Use mango or peach slices for a different fruity sweetness.

storage/reheating

Make‑ahead: Patties can be shaped and seasoned ahead of time; store covered in the fridge up to 24 hours.
Refrigeration: Store cooked patties and pineapple separately for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat patties and pineapple in a skillet or grill over medium heat, then re-toast buns briefly before assembly.

FAQs

What beef ratio is best for juicy burgers?

An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal—rich enough for flavor, but not greasy.

Can I cook these indoors?

Yes—you can grill on a stovetop grill pan or use a cast-iron skillet for patties and pineapple.

Is fresh pineapple better than canned?

Fresh offers better texture and flavor; if using canned, choose rings in juice (not syrup) and pat dry before grilling.

How do I keep the burger juicy without overcooking?

Cook to an internal temperature of 160 °F (71 °C). Avoid pressing the patty while cooking to retain juices.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free buns and ensure your BBQ sauce contains no gluten ingredients.

What cheese melts best?

Monterey Jack or mild cheddar melt smoothly; Swiss adds a mild nuttiness.

Can I prep everything in advance for a cookout?

Yes—patties and pineapple slices can be prepped ahead; simply grill at serving time for best texture.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives; use oil instead of butter for toasting buns.

What sides pair well with this burger?

Choose coleslaw, sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad for complementary textures and flavors.

Can I make sliders instead?

Yes—use smaller patties and buns for bite-sized Hawaiian BBQ pineapple sliders—cook and assemble as directed.

Conclusion

The Hawaiian BBQ Pineapple Cheeseburger offers a fun, flavor-packed twist on the classic burger. Its blend of sweet, savory, smoky, and fruity notes delivers a unique and satisfying bite. Perfect for summer grilling or casual dinners, this burger is easily customized with spicy, tropical, or cheesy variations. Bring the taste of the islands to your table and enjoy an elevated burger experience!