The Big Kahuna Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise features a juicy beef patty topped with grilled pineapple, smoky bacon, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled inside a soft toasted bun for a tropical twist on a classic burger.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer or grater
- Basting brush
- Plate
- Toaster or oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Barbecue sauce
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh pineapple rings provide the signature tropical flavor in The Big Kahuna Burger, but canned pineapple can be used as a convenient alternative without sacrificing much taste. Using thick-cut smoky bacon enhances the savory layers, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and the tangy barbecue sauce. Ground beef with a fat content around 20% will ensure a juicy patty that holds up well when grilled. Toasting the hamburger buns before assembly adds texture and prevents sogginess from the sauces. Your efforts in selecting quality ingredients will replicate the iconic Big Kahuna Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise on your own copycat menu successfully.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Shape ground beef into 4 equal patties; season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Cook bacon in skillet or frying pan over medium heat until crispy; drain on plate lined with paper towel.
- Grill beef patties for 3–4 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of grilling to melt.
- Grill pineapple rings for 1–2 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
- Lightly toast hamburger buns in toaster or oven.
- Assemble burgers: place lettuce and tomato on bottom bun.
- Add beef patty with melted cheese.
- Top with grilled pineapple ring and crispy bacon.
- Drizzle barbecue sauce over toppings.
- Cover with top bun and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Big Kahuna Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise copycat menu highlights a perfect blend of tropical and savory flavors with its grilled pineapple and smoky bacon topping. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple rings work well as a convenient substitute without compromising taste. You can swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack if you prefer a milder or spicier cheese option. When grilling the patties, ensure they are cooked evenly by pressing slightly with a spatula and flipping once to retain juiciness. Use a basting brush to lightly coat the burger and pineapple rings with barbecue sauce for enhanced flavor and moisture.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to achieve a good sear on the beef patties, locking in juices for maximum flavor. Avoid pressing down on the patties while grilling to prevent loss of those flavorful juices, keeping your Big Kahuna Burger juicy. When grilling pineapple, watch closely to avoid burning as the natural sugars caramelize quickly; this sweet tang enhances your burger's tropical profile. Use a basting brush to apply barbecue sauce evenly, giving you control over the amount and distribution, so every bite is perfectly balanced.
Nutritions
The Big Kahuna Burger provides a rich source of protein from the 1 lb of ground beef and 4 slices of bacon, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Grilled pineapple adds a boost of vitamin C and manganese, supporting immune function and antioxidant defenses. The cheddar cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, important for bone health, while the fresh lettuce and tomato slices enhance the burger's fiber and micronutrient content. Your meal balances indulgence with nutritional benefits through its combination of fresh and hearty ingredients.
Storage
Store leftover Big Kahuna Burger components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness; keep the beef patties, pineapple rings, and bacon refrigerated within 2 hours after cooking. For best flavor, reheat the patties and pineapple gently on a grill or skillet before assembling your burger. Your buns should be kept in a sealed bag at room temperature to prevent sogginess and toasted fresh when ready to serve.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to create a leaner version of the Big Kahuna Burger without sacrificing flavor. For a smoky heat, swap traditional barbecue sauce with chipotle-infused or spicy mango barbecue sauce. Try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a creamy kick, or grill a slice of red onion alongside the pineapple for added sweetness and texture. To keep the pineapple from slipping, skewer the rings or brush them lightly with oil before grilling to enhance caramelization and prevent sticking.
Allergies
The Big Kahuna Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and gluten found in the hamburger buns. Bacon and barbecue sauce may contain preservatives or additives that can trigger allergies or sensitivities in some individuals. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, carefully check labels and consider substituting or omitting items to keep your meal safe.
Why this recipe?
The Big Kahuna Burger menu from Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurant is loved for its authentic Hawaiian flavors, juicy grilled pineapple, and perfectly seasoned beef patty that transport your taste buds to a tropical island. Your palate enjoys the unique blend of sweet and savory elements, complemented by fresh lettuce and melted cheese, creating an irresistible bite. Replicating this burger at home allows you to experience restaurant-quality taste with customizable ingredients, ensuring every bite matches your preference. Trying the copycat recipe is worth it for savoring the iconic flavors in your own kitchen anytime.