Grilled Hawaiian Burgers with Pineapple and Teriyaki Sauce (Print version)

Juicy beef burgers grilled with pineapple rings, Swiss cheese, red onion, lettuce, and a quick pineapple teriyaki sauce.

# Ingredients:

For the teriyaki sauce

01 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
02 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) pineapple juice
03 - 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
04 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
05 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
06 - 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
07 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water

For the burgers

08 - 1 1/2 lb (680 g) ground beef, 80/20 preferred
09 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
10 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 4 fresh pineapple rings, about 1/2 inch thick
13 - 4 slices Swiss cheese
14 - 4 brioche or hamburger buns, split
15 - 4 lettuce leaves
16 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
17 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil, for the grill grates

# Instructions:

01 - Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, then whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until glossy. Cool slightly.
02 - Gently mix the ground beef with green onions, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of cooled teriyaki sauce. Shape into 4 patties about 3/4 inch thick and press a shallow dimple into each center.
03 - Heat a grill to medium-high, about 400°F. Clean and lightly oil the grates so the pineapple and patties release cleanly.
04 - Grill the pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side until marked and lightly caramelized. Move them to a plate.
05 - Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the center reaches 160°F for ground beef. During the last minute, brush lightly with teriyaki sauce and top each patty with Swiss cheese.
06 - Toast the buns cut-side down for 30-60 seconds. Layer lettuce, a cheeseburger patty, red onion, grilled pineapple, and extra teriyaki sauce on each bun. Serve right away.

# Good to know:

01 - Fresh pineapple gives the best grill marks, but canned rings packed in juice can be used if dried well.
02 - Brush teriyaki sauce on near the end of grilling so the sugar does not scorch.
03 - Cook ground beef burgers to 160°F.

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