Pineapple Bacon BBQ Burgers

Nothing beats a burger that combines savory, juicy beef with the sweetness of pineapple and smoky bacon. This oven-baked pineapple bacon burger lets you skip the grill but still delivers big BBQ flavor with minimal fuss. Whether it is a weeknight or summer get-together, this is my secret for crowd-pleasing burgers that turn out perfectly every time.

The first time I baked these rather than grilling was a rainy Fourth of July and they disappeared faster than any burgers I have made before. Even my picky eaters went back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: with 93 to 7 fat ratio to keep things rich but not greasy Buy fresh from the butcher if possible and avoid pre-packaged for better flavor and texture
• Barbecue sauce: Sweet Baby Rays Original or similar smoky variety brings bold tang Use your favorite smoky or sweet-spicy version
• Salt and black pepper: to enhance the beef flavor Always use freshly ground pepper for the best kick and kosher salt for even seasoning
• Smoked bacon: uncooked for rich flavor and crispiness Standard or center-cut slices work best for even cooking Avoid thick-cut bacon which takes too long to get crisp
• Fresh pineapple slices: cut half-inch thick for maximum juiciness Choose ripe pineapples that are bright yellow and fragrant or use high-quality canned rings packed in juice not syrup
• Bakery style burger buns: Brioche style recommended for extra softness and buttery taste Toast lightly if desired for a little crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Tray:

Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking tray lined with foil This keeps the burgers elevated improving air flow for crispy bacon and easy cleanup

Mix and Season the Beef:

Combine ground beef two tablespoons barbecue sauce salt and black pepper in a large bowl Mix gently using your hands Avoid overworking to keep the burgers tender

Form the Patties:

Divide your beef mixture into four equal parts about four ounces each Gently shape each into a three and a half inch wide half-inch thick patty

Wrap the Burgers:

Lay two strips of bacon in an X shape on parchment or a board Place one patty at the center then top with a pineapple slice Fold bacon ends over the top securing with a toothpick through the middle to keep everything in place Repeat for each burger

Arrange and Bake:

Place wrapped burgers on the prepared rack Bake for fifteen minutes then remove and brush bacon with the remaining barbecue sauce

Finish Baking:

Return burgers to oven Bake another ten to fifteen minutes until bacon is golden and internal temperature is at least one hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit for safety Juices should run clear If you like medium burger check five minutes early

Toast the Buns:

While burgers finish toast your buns briefly in the oven or toaster for added texture

Rest and Serve:

Let burgers rest five minutes on the pan after baking This helps the juices settle and keeps burgers moist Remove toothpicks before serving Place each burger on a bun Add optional toppings if you like

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Pineapple gives a juicy sweet layer that balances the smoky bacon and beef perfectly My family now requests these for every backyard movie night and I especially love how hands off the oven method is

Storage Tips

Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat simply place in a hot oven for ten minutes or microwave in one-minute bursts until warm To keep the bacon crispy avoid tightly covering with plastic wrap when warm

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap fresh pineapple for canned rings but pat them dry before using If you do not eat beef try ground chicken turkey or a plant-based crumbles patty Just keep the core steps the same Choose turkey bacon or veggie bacon if you want something lighter

Serving Suggestions

I like to keep sides light and fresh A tangy vinegar slaw or some grilled corn really balances the burger’s richness For something fun serve with sweet potato fries or a simple arugula salad These burgers also pair well with tropical drinks like pineapple lemonade

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Cultural and Historical Context

Burgers with pineapple began trending at backyard barbecues as cooks looked for ways to mix American comfort with bright tropical flavors The combination reflects a growing love of fusion foods and fits just as well in a summer cookout as a quick weeknight dinner This dish channels a bit of old-school Hawaii burger restaurant nostalgia right from your oven

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple rings packed in 100% juice can be substituted. Just make sure to pat them dry before assembling for best results.

→ What type of bacon works best?

Standard or center-cut smoked bacon crisps up well in the oven. Thicker cuts may not cook through as evenly.

→ How do I know when the burgers are done?

Check with an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F for well-done burgers with clear juices.

→ Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Lettuce, sliced onion, cheddar cheese, or mayonnaise are all delicious options with these burgers.

→ Why bake instead of grill?

Baking allows for easy, mess-free cooking without flipping, ensuring the bacon becomes crispy and the burgers stay juicy.

→ Is it okay to prepare these in advance?

You can assemble the burgers ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake for quick weeknight meals.