Name: Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended); ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; ½ cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for basting); 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained); 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese; 4 burger buns, toasted; Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, mayonnaise

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings a fun, vibrant flavor profile to the table without a lot of extra work. The teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully over the beef patties, while the pineapple adds a natural sweetness and brightness. It’s an easy way to elevate burger night with just a few tropical touches. Plus, everyone always goes back for seconds.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
Hamburger buns
Sliced cheese (like Swiss, provolone, or cheddar)
Red onion, thinly sliced
Lettuce or spinach leaves
Mayonnaise (optional)
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)

directions

I start by seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form it into equal-sized burger patties.
I preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the burgers for about 4–5 minutes per side, brushing each side with teriyaki sauce as they cook.
While the patties finish cooking, I grill or sear the pineapple rings until caramelized, about 2–3 minutes per side.
I toast the burger buns lightly in a pan or on the grill with a bit of butter or oil.
I add a slice of cheese to the patties during the last minute of cooking and let it melt.
To assemble, I spread mayo on the bottom bun (if using), add lettuce, the teriyaki-glazed patty with melted cheese, a grilled pineapple ring, red onion slices, and top with the bun.
I serve the burgers hot with extra teriyaki sauce on the side if I want more.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 burgers. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so I usually have everything ready in about 30 minutes.

Variations

I’ve made this with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and even used a grilled portobello mushroom cap for a vegetarian version. Sometimes I add a slice of tomato or a spicy mayo for more kick. And when I want to make it extra indulgent, I use a brioche bun and top it with crispy bacon.

storage/reheating

I store leftover burger patties in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them briefly, adding a fresh slice of pineapple or a bit more teriyaki sauce to keep them moist. I don’t recommend storing fully assembled burgers—just the components separately.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, I’ve used canned pineapple rings many times. I drain them well before grilling to help them caramelize properly.

Can I make the teriyaki sauce at home?

Absolutely. I often make a quick sauce with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch mixed with water for thickening.

What cheese works best?

I like Swiss or provolone for their mild, creamy melt, but sharp cheddar adds a nice contrast if I want a bolder flavor.

Do I have to grill the burgers?

Nope. I’ve pan-seared them in a cast iron skillet and they still turn out delicious. The key is brushing the teriyaki sauce as they cook.

What sides go well with these burgers?

I usually serve them with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh cucumber salad for something light and crunchy.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers are a flavorful, juicy upgrade to the traditional burger. I love the balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, and how easy it is to make them feel special with just a few tropical touches. Whether I’m grilling for guests or making a casual weeknight dinner, these burgers always bring the aloha spirit to my kitchen.