Pineapple Bacon Burger

This oven baked pineapple bacon burger is all about big flavors and simple steps. Juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, and caramelized pineapple come together with barbecue sauce for a sweet and savory bite that feels both comforting and exciting. No grill required, just your oven and a little patience for bacon to crisp and pineapple to turn golden.

I first made this on a rainy afternoon when grilling outdoors was not an option. The moment the pineapple caramelized against the bacon, the kitchen filled with such an amazing aroma that it instantly became a family favorite.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: gives a rich base without too much grease choose fresh ground with some fat for juiciness
• Smoky barbecue sauce: adds sweetness and tang choose a brand with natural smoke flavor for best taste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: simple seasoning that enhances without overpowering
• Smoked bacon: wraps the burger in a crisp savory layer go for regular cut so it crisps well
• Fresh pineapple slices: bring natural sweetness and caramelize beautifully in the oven look for ripe but firm pineapple
• Brioche buns: soft and slightly sweet they balance the smoky savory flavors choose ones that are sturdy enough to hold the burger
• Toothpicks: keep everything secure during baking sturdy wooden ones are best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan:

Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set a wire rack on top. This allows fat to drip away and helps bacon crisp evenly.

Mix and Shape Patties:

In a large bowl combine ground beef with two tablespoons of barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Divide into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about three and a half inches wide and half an inch thick. Over mixing makes burgers dense so keep it light.

Wrap with Bacon and Pineapple:

Lay two slices of bacon in a cross pattern on parchment paper. Place a patty in the center and top with a pineapple ring. Fold the bacon over the top of the pineapple and secure with a toothpick through the middle. This keeps everything neat while baking.

Bake the Burgers:

Arrange all wrapped patties on the wire rack. Bake for fifteen minutes then remove from the oven and brush the tops with remaining barbecue sauce. Return to bake for ten to fifteen minutes more until the bacon is crisp and the burger reaches 160°F internal temperature.

Rest and Serve:

Let the burgers rest on the pan for five minutes to keep juices inside. Toast brioche buns if desired. Remove toothpicks, place each burger on a bun, and finish with toppings such as lettuce, cheese, or avocado.

Bookmark

I always look forward to the point when the pineapple edges start to caramelize and meld with the smoky bacon aroma. It reminds me of the first time I made these for friends and everyone reached for seconds before I could even sit down.

Storage Tips

Wrap cooked burgers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to keep the bacon crisp. Avoid microwaving which makes bacon soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Canned pineapple rings can work if drained and patted dry. Ground turkey is a leaner option in place of beef but keep an eye on seasoning and moisture to prevent dryness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with golden baked fries or a crisp green salad. Inside the bun, a slice of avocado or a spoon of creamy slaw adds extra richness and texture.

Cultural Context

This dish nods to Hawaiian flavors where pineapple often pairs with pork. Baking in the oven makes it easy for anyone to enjoy those tropical inspired flavors without the need for an outdoor grill.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple rings work well. Just pat them dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

→ Is thick-cut bacon suitable for this burger?

It’s better to use regular or center-cut bacon. Thick-cut takes longer to crisp and may not wrap tightly.

→ Can I grill these burgers instead of baking?

They’re designed for oven baking, but you can grill them using indirect heat and a foil tray to catch drippings.

→ How do I know when the burgers are done?

Use an instant-read thermometer. The patties should reach 160°F internally for safe consumption.

→ What kind of buns pair best with this burger?

Brioche buns are ideal because their soft texture and slight sweetness complement the smoky bacon and pineapple.

→ Can I prepare these burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. Let them rest at room temperature before baking.