Introduction
Pineapple Bacon Burgers are a delightful twist on the classic burger, combining the savory flavors of bacon and beef with the sweet, tangy taste of pineapple. This unique recipe brings together textures and tastes that will excite your taste buds and impress your guests. With easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef (93% lean)
4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s Original), divided
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
8 slices smoked bacon (standard-cut or center-cut)
4 fresh pineapple rings (½ inch thick, core removed)
4 bakery-style hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
*Optional toppings:* leaf lettuce, sliced onion, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25-30 minutes
Total Time
45-50 minutes
Yield
4 burgers
Enjoy your Pineapple Bacon Burgers!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place an oven-safe wire rack on top.
Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce, salt, and black pepper. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
Form Patties
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions, shaping each into a patty approximately 3½ inches in diameter and ½ inch thick.
Assemble the Burgers
On a piece of parchment paper or a clean surface, lay two bacon slices in an “X” shape. Place a burger patty in the center of the “X.” Top the patty with a pineapple ring. Fold the bacon slices over the pineapple and patty, securing them with a toothpick through the center where the bacon overlaps.
Bake
Place the assembled burgers on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the remaining 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce over the bacon-wrapped burgers. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the bacon is crispy.
Toast the Buns
While the burgers are baking, slice the hamburger buns and toast them if desired.
Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the burgers from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Place each burger on a toasted bun. Add optional toppings such as lettuce, onion slices, cheddar cheese, or mayonnaise as desired.
Notes
Bacon Selection
Choose smoked bacon for added flavor; standard or center-cut works best for wrapping the burgers.
Grill Alternative
These burgers can also be grilled instead of baked. Grill over medium heat until cooked through and bacon is crispy.
Pineapple Freshness
Use fresh pineapple rings for the best flavor, but canned rings can be a convenient alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F before baking to achieve even cooking and crispy bacon.
Combining Ingredients
Gently mix ground beef, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper without overworking the meat to maintain the burgers’ tenderness.
Shaping Patties
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties approximately 3½ inches wide and ½ inch thick.
Bacon Wrapping
Lay bacon slices in an “X” shape, placing the patty and pineapple ring at the center, then fold the bacon over and secure with a toothpick for a flavorful wrap.
Baking Burgers
Use an oven-safe wire rack on a baking sheet to let the burgers cook evenly. Brush with BBQ sauce halfway through for enhanced flavor.
Toasting Buns
Toast the hamburger buns in the oven or on a skillet for added texture and warmth, enhancing the overall burger experience.
Resting the Burgers
Allow the burgers to rest for 5 minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute, ensuring moisture in each bite.
FAQ
Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives depending on your preference.
What can I use instead of BBQ sauce?
You can use teriyaki sauce or a homemade marinade if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How can I tell if the burgers are cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety.
Can I add other toppings to the burgers?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or various cheeses to your liking.
What sides go well with these burgers?
Consider serving them with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Bacon Burger recipe combines the savory flavors of lean beef and crispy bacon with the sweetness of pineapple and BBQ sauce, making for a unique and delicious meal. The combination of these ingredients not only enhances the burger’s flavor profile but also adds texture and visual appeal. Whether enjoyed for a casual weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ, these burgers are sure to please a crowd.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Burger
Swap the ground beef for ground chicken and use teriyaki sauce in place of BBQ sauce. Add grilled pineapple rings and serve on sesame seed buns.
Spicy Jalapeño Bacon Burger
Incorporate diced jalapeños into the ground beef mixture for extra heat. Top with pepper jack cheese and fresh jalapeño slices, and use BBQ sauce that has a spicy kick.
Hawaiian Veggie Burger
Replace the ground beef with a black bean or chickpea patty and grill the pineapple rings. Use the same toppings and sauces for a delightful vegetarian option.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Burger
Substitute the ground beef for ground chicken and mix in buffalo sauce with the beef. Top with crispy bacon, blue cheese, and ranch dressing for a tangy flavor.
BBQ Mushroom Swiss Burger
Use portobello mushrooms as the patty base, brushing them with BBQ sauce before grilling. Add melted Swiss cheese and serve on garlic butter toasted brioche buns.
