➤ Table of Contents
Hi, I’m Chloe—and if you’ve ever found yourself smiling while stirring a simmering pot or sneaking a taste of cookie dough straight from the bowl, then you’re in the right place. I started this recipe blog not just to share meals, but to share moments. Some of my fondest memories were made in the kitchen—messy, imperfect, joy-filled memories that always seemed to center around food.
Whether I’m crafting a cozy weeknight dinner, testing a nostalgic dessert, or simply experimenting with seasonal ingredients, each recipe I post is something I’ve truly loved making (and eating). This space was born from the belief that cooking shouldn’t be complicated or intimidating—it should be creative, comforting, and, most of all, fun. I want this blog to feel like your favorite corner of the internet, the one you turn to when you’re craving something delicious or need a spark of inspiration. Here, we welcome kitchen wins and happy accidents alike, because every step is part of the story.
Over time, this blog has become more than just a collection of recipes—it’s become a community. I’ve been lucky to connect with so many incredible home cooks who share their tips, tweaks, and even their flops with such honesty and enthusiasm. It reminds me why I started this in the first place: to bring people together, one bite at a time.
Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Discover how to make juicy Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Elevate your burger game with this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
2 lb (907 g) s 93% ground beef
1/2 cup (120 ml) grated carrots
1/2 cup (120 ml) chopped scallions
1 tsp (5 ml) fresh grated ginger
1 tbsp (15 ml) reduced sodium soy sauce
1 tsp (5 ml) sriracha sauce, or more if you like it spicy
8 slices fresh pineapple
8 whole wheat 100 calorie buns, I used Martin’s
8 lettuce leaves
1/2 tbsp (8 ml) cornstarch
1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water
1/4 cup (60 ml) low sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup (120 ml) pineapple juice
3 tbsp (45 ml) brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) fresh grated ginger, very fine
1 small garlic clove, minced
Instructions
1. Carefully mix the 93% ground beef with grated carrots, chopped scallions, fresh grated ginger, reduced sodium soy sauce, and sriracha sauce.
2. Shape the mixture into 8 patties of equal size, avoiding overmixing to keep the meat tender.
3. Dissolve the cornstarch in cold water and set it aside for later use.
4. In a small saucepan, stir together low sodium soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, finely grated ginger, and minced garlic. Heat this mixture over medium-low heat, bringing it to a boil, then let it simmer until the sauce thickens, approximately 15 to 18 minutes.
5. Pour in the cornstarch mixture and continue to simmer until the sauce becomes thick, around 2 more minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool.
6. Prepare the grill by heating it up. Once hot, clean the grates and apply a spray of oil.
7. Place the beef patties on the grill and cook on high heat for roughly 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.
8. As the patties are cooking, grill the fresh pineapple slices for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
9. To assemble, lay a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each whole wheat bun. Place the cooked beef patty on top, add 1 tablespoon of teriyaki sauce, and finish with a slice of grilled pineapple.
Notes
1. For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the beef patties in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours before grilling.
2. Substitute scallions with pineapple for a sweeter patty variation.
3. Store leftover patties and pineapple separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
4. Avoid overmixing the beef mixture to prevent the patties from becoming tough.
Getting Started with Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
Fundamentals
Creating Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers in your own kitchen is a delightful experience that begins with understanding the basics. The crux of this recipe lies in the harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors, which is what sets these burgers apart from your everyday grill fare. Start by gathering your ingredients: 2 lb (907 g) of 93% ground beef, 1/2 cup (120 ml) each of grated carrots and chopped scallions, 1 tsp (5 ml) of fresh grated ginger, 1 tbsp (15 ml) of reduced sodium soy sauce, and 1 tsp (5 ml) of sriracha sauce.
These components will form the flavorful base of your patties. For the teriyaki glaze, you’ll need 1/2 tbsp (8 ml) of cornstarch, 1/4 cup (60 ml) each of cold water, low sodium soy sauce, and pineapple juice, along with 3 tbsp (45 ml) of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) of very finely grated ginger, and one small garlic clove, minced.
Once you have your ingredients lined up, the next step is preparing your patties. Carefully mix the ground beef with the carrots, scallions, ginger, soy sauce, and sriracha. The key here is to mix the ingredients just enough to combine them without overworking the meat, as this can lead to tough burgers. Divide the mixture into eight equal parts and gently shape them into patties. This part of the process is crucial for ensuring that your burgers cook evenly on the grill.
Preparation/setup
Before you start cooking, it’s important to get your preparation right. Begin by dissolving the cornstarch in cold water and setting it aside. This mixture will be used later to thicken your teriyaki sauce, giving it that perfect, glossy finish. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. Heat this mixture over medium-low heat until it comes to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Add the cornstarch mixture and continue to simmer for another two minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove it from the heat and let it cool while you prepare the grill.
A well-prepared grill is crucial for achieving that ideal char and flavor. Heat the grill to high, clean the grates thoroughly, and apply a spray of oil to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, you’re ready to start cooking your Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers. This preparation not only ensures a smooth cooking process but also enhances the final taste and texture of your burgers. If you’re looking to explore more delicious and easy recipes, check out our recipe archives for inspiration.
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering garlic butter BLT sandwich that’s bursting with savory goodness.
Technique for a Perfect Hawaiian Teriyaki Burger
Technique
The technique for grilling Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers to perfection begins with the patties. Place them on the hot grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness. The high heat ensures a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. As you grill, don’t press down on the patties; this helps retain the flavorful juices within the meat.
In parallel, place the fresh pineapple slices on the grill. These should be grilled for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The grilling caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, enhancing its sweetness and adding a smoky layer to your burger. This step is essential for achieving the quintessential Hawaiian taste that makes these burgers irresistible.
Tips and Tricks
When making Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers, a few tips can elevate your grilling game. First, always let your patties rest at room temperature before grilling. This simple step helps them cook more evenly. Next, keep a close eye on the pineapple slices; they can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quite quickly. Another tip is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burgers, ensuring they are cooked to your liking without cutting into them, which can release the juices.
Lastly, consider the buns. Whole wheat buns, like the 100-calorie ones used here, provide a wholesome base and complement the flavors without overpowering them. Ensure they are fresh and, if you prefer, lightly toast them on the grill for added texture. For more grilling tips and ideas, take a look at our grilling guide for home cooks.
Optimizing Your Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
Perfecting Results
Perfecting Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers involves paying attention to both flavor and texture. The teriyaki sauce is pivotal here; its sweet-savory balance should enhance but not overpower the beef’s natural flavor. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by controlling the simmering time and the amount of cornstarch used. The sauce should be thick enough to cling to the patties yet pourable enough to drizzle over the burgers.
To achieve the ideal balance in your burgers, consider the assembly. Start with a crisp lettuce leaf on the bottom half of the bun to prevent it from getting soggy. After placing the beef patty, add a tablespoon of teriyaki sauce, then top with a grilled pineapple slice. Each element contributes to the final taste experience, so it’s important to layer them thoughtfully.
Troubleshooting and Variations
If you encounter any issues while making Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers, troubleshooting can help. For instance, if the patties fall apart on the grill, ensure they are well-formed and compact before cooking. If the sauce is too runny, extend the simmering time to allow more reduction. Should the burgers feel too dry, consider adding a bit more soy sauce or sriracha to the meat mixture for added moisture and flavor.
For those who enjoy experimenting, consider variations such as adding a slice of cheese or a different type of lettuce for a unique twist. You can also explore alternative sides or sauces to complement the burgers. Our burger variations guide offers more ideas to inspire your culinary creativity.
Serving Your Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers
Serving and Presentation
Serving Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with style enhances the dining experience. Start by arranging each burger on a plate with a side of your choice, such as sweet potato fries or a simple green salad. The vibrant colors of the grilled pineapple, lettuce, and teriyaki sauce create an eye-catching presentation that invites anticipation.
For a more festive occasion, consider serving the burgers on a platter with a variety of toppings and sides, allowing guests to customize their meals. This interactive element can make the meal more engaging and enjoyable. For further presentation tips, check out our presentation guide for home cooks.
Pairings and Storage
Pairing Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers with the right sides and beverages can enhance the overall meal. Consider serving them with a refreshing tropical smoothie or a light lemonade to complement the sweet and savory notes of the burgers. For a more substantial pairing, a side of grilled vegetables or corn on the cob works beautifully.
If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can be reheated and assembled into fresh burgers within a few days. The sauce can also double as a glaze for other grilled meats, offering versatility beyond the initial meal. For more on storing and reusing ingredients, see our storage tips page.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Teriyaki Burgers offer a delightful fusion of flavors, combining savory beef with the sweet tang of pineapple and teriyaki sauce. This recipe not only provides a delicious meal but also an opportunity to create memorable moments in the kitchen. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward method ensure that anyone can enjoy crafting these burgers. Emphasizing the importance of preparation, technique, and presentation, this dish becomes more than just a meal; it becomes an experience. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these burgers are sure to impress. Dive into the flavors of the islands and bring a taste of Hawaii to your table.
