Pineapple Bacon Burger: Sweet, Smoky, and Seriously Satisfying
Some recipes just hit different — and this one’s a bite of summer you can savor all year long. A pineapple bacon burger isn’t just a burger. It’s a flavor explosion: juicy beef, crispy bacon, sweet caramelized pineapple, and a perfect blend of smoky and tangy all nestled between a toasted bun.
This burger doesn’t ask for permission to impress — it just does. Whether you’re grilling for friends or treating yourself to a bold weeknight meal, this one’s meant to be devoured with both hands and a smile.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices fresh pineapple (or canned, drained)
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame seed preferred)
- 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 4 leaves romaine lettuce
- 4 slices red onion (optional)
- BBQ sauce or chipotle mayo (for spread)
🧰 Equipment Required
| Amount | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grill or skillet | For cooking patties and pineapple |
| 1 | Large bowl | For mixing beef seasoning |
| 1 | Spatula | For flipping patties |
| 1 | Tongs | For handling bacon and pineapple |
| 1 | Knife + board | For slicing toppings |
| 1 | Plate | For assembling burgers |
👨🍳 How to Make Pineapple Bacon Burger
1. Season and Shape Your Patties
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions and gently shape into patties about ¾ inch thick. Press a small indent in the center of each patty — this helps prevent puffing during cooking.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels. Set aside — and try not to snack on all of it before the burgers are done!
3. Grill or Sear the Pineapple
Using the same pan or a grill, lightly char the pineapple slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden. The heat brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a smoky edge that makes this pineapple bacon burger unforgettable.
4. Cook the Burger Patties
Grill or pan-sear the patties over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side (or until they reach your desired doneness). In the last minute, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
5. Toast the Buns
Lightly butter and toast the burger buns cut-side down on the pan or grill for 1–2 minutes, until golden and crisp.
6. Assemble the Burgers
Spread BBQ sauce or chipotle mayo on the buns. Layer with lettuce, the cheesy patty, bacon, grilled pineapple, and optional red onion. Cap it off with the top bun and gently press everything together.
Pineapple Bacon Burger
Equipment
- 1 Grill or skillet For cooking patties and pineapple
- 1 Large bowl For mixing beef seasoning
- 1 Spatula For flipping patties
- 1 Tongs For handling bacon and pineapple
- 1 Knife + board For slicing toppings
- 1 Plate For assembling burgers
Ingredients
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for juiciness
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices fresh pineapple or canned, drained
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 burger buns brioche or sesame seed preferred
- 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 4 leaves romaine lettuce
- 4 slices red onion optional
- BBQ sauce or chipotle mayo for spread
Instructions
Season and Shape Your Patties
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions and gently shape into patties about ¾ inch thick. Press a small indent in the center of each patty — this helps prevent puffing during cooking.
Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels. Set aside — and try not to snack on all of it before the burgers are done!
Grill or Sear the Pineapple
- Using the same pan or a grill, lightly char the pineapple slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden. The heat brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a smoky edge that makes this pineapple bacon burger unforgettable.
Cook the Burger Patties
- Grill or pan-sear the patties over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side (or until they reach your desired doneness). In the last minute, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
Toast the Buns
- Lightly butter and toast the burger buns cut-side down on the pan or grill for 1–2 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Assemble the Burgers
- Spread BBQ sauce or chipotle mayo on the buns. Layer with lettuce, the cheesy patty, bacon, grilled pineapple, and optional red onion. Cap it off with the top bun and gently press everything together.
Notes
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Burger
- Sweet + salty = unmatched flavor balance
- Crispy bacon and juicy pineapple create texture harmony
- Totally grill-worthy, but easy on the stove too
- Customizable with sauces, greens, or spice level
This pineapple bacon burger is bold, juicy, and a little indulgent — everything a homemade burger should be.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this pineapple bacon burger with turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well — just use a bit of olive oil to keep it moist.
Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
Definitely. Just make sure it’s well-drained, and opt for slices in juice, not syrup, for the best flavor.
Q: What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds depth, while Swiss gives a melty, nutty flavor. Pepper jack works great for a kick!
Q: What sauce should I use?
BBQ sauce brings smoky sweetness, while chipotle mayo adds a creamy heat. You can even try teriyaki for a Hawaiian twist.
Q: Can I prep anything in advance?
Yes! You can cook the bacon, slice the pineapple, and shape the patties ahead of time. Just store everything separately in the fridge and cook when ready.
💬 Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that breaks the usual burger routine but still delivers that satisfying, juicy bite — this pineapple bacon burger is your new go-to. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple dinner into something you remember. And once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t put pineapple on burgers sooner.