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These pineapple bacon burgers saved me from another boring dinner when I was tired of making the same old burgers but didn't want to deal with firing up the grill. Wrapping everything in bacon and baking it in the oven means you get all those amazing flavors without standing outside flipping patties or worrying about timing. The sweet pineapple with smoky bacon and BBQ-seasoned beef creates this incredible combination that makes everyone think you got takeout from some fancy burger place.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: adds hearty flavor without being too greasy use 93 7 for the best texture
- Fresh pineapple rings: bring natural sweetness and brightness fresher than canned
- Regular bacon: crisps up properly during baking thick cut does not work as well
- Good BBQ sauce: adds smokiness and tang choose a flavor you enjoy
- Brioche buns: soft and rich they hold everything together without falling apart
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Heat your oven to 400°F and line a big baking sheet with foil and a wire rack. The rack lets air get under the burgers so they do not get soggy on the bottom.
- Mix the Meat:
- Combine ground beef with 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep patties tender not dense.
- Form the Patties:
- Shape the meat into 4 equal patties about 3 and a half inches wide and half an inch thick. Do not overwork the meat.
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Lay two strips of bacon in an X shape. Set a burger patty in the center add a pineapple ring on top and fold bacon ends up and over. Secure with a toothpick through the center.
- Arrange and Bake:
- Place all wrapped burgers on the prepared rack and bake for 15 minutes.
- Brush and Finish Baking:
- Remove from oven and brush with remaining BBQ sauce. Return to oven for 10 to 15 minutes more until internal temp reaches 160°F.
- Let Them Rest:
- Remove from oven and let burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps juices from running out.
- Serve:
- Remove toothpicks and serve on toasted brioche buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce or cheese.
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Storage Tips
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to restore the bacon's crisp texture. Avoid microwaving as it makes the bacon chewy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh pineapple is not available use canned rings packed in juice not syrup. Pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture. Use your favorite barbecue sauce to adjust the flavor profile. You can also use turkey bacon but it may not wrap as tightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve burgers on toasted brioche buns with lettuce tomato or a slice of cheddar. They pair perfectly with fries onion rings or coleslaw. A cold beer or iced tea balances the sweet and smoky flavors well.
Cultural Context
The idea of pineapple on savory dishes comes from fusion cuisine especially Hawaiian influenced barbecue. The sweet and smoky combo is popular in American grilling culture but this version makes it accessible without outdoor cooking.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure to choose rings packed in juice not syrup. Pat them dry thoroughly before using to avoid soggy bacon.
- → Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
You can form and wrap the burgers with bacon a few hours ahead. Store them covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
- → What is the best bacon to use?
Regular sliced bacon works best. Thick-cut bacon doesn’t crisp up as evenly and can remain chewy in the oven.
- → Do I need a wire rack to bake these?
A wire rack is highly recommended. It helps the bacon crisp on all sides and prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.
- → What can I serve with pineapple bacon burgers?
Try pairing them with fries, sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, or grilled corn. A cold drink like iced tea or beer also works great.