The Pineapple Express Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise features a juicy beef patty topped with grilled pineapple rings, melted Swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy teriyaki sauce, all nestled within a toasted sesame seed bun for a sweet and savory tropical flavor.
Equipments
- Grill
- Grill tongs
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Small saucepan (for teriyaki sauce, if homemade)
- Basting brush (for sauce)
- Plate (for assembling and serving)
- Bun toaster or toaster oven (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 6 sesame seed burger buns
- 6 lettuce leaves
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh pineapple rings enhance the Pineapple Express Burger's tropical flavor, but canned pineapple can be used as a convenient alternative without sacrificing sweetness. Ground beef with about 15-20% fat content ensures a juicy and flavorful patty when grilled. Teriyaki sauce adds a tangy richness and can be store-bought for ease or homemade for a fresher taste, requiring only a small saucepan and basting brush. Toasted sesame seed buns provide a slightly nutty contrast that complements the sweet and savory ingredients, so toasting is recommended if you want an optimal texture. Your Pineapple Express Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise copycat menu will shine with these ingredient choices and proper preparation techniques.
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Shape ground beef into 6 burger patties.
- Season patties with salt and pepper (optional).
- Place patties on grill; cook 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
- Grill pineapple rings 1-2 minutes per side until lightly charred.
- Toast buns on the grill or in toaster oven until golden.
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty; let melt.
- Brush or drizzle teriyaki sauce on patties.
- Assemble burger: bottom bun, lettuce leaf, beef patty with cheese and sauce, grilled pineapple ring, top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Pineapple Express Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise copycat menu combines a flavorful beef patty with sweet grilled pineapple, Swiss cheese, and teriyaki sauce for a delightful tropical taste. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple rings work well as a substitute, though they may be slightly sweeter and softer when grilled. Store-bought teriyaki sauce offers convenience, but making your own in a small saucepan allows you to adjust sweetness and saltiness to your preference. Toasting the sesame seed buns enhances texture and adds a nutty aroma, which you can achieve using a bun toaster or a standard toaster oven. Be sure to use a basting brush for even application of the teriyaki sauce during grilling to keep your burger juicy and well-flavored.
Tips
Grilling the pineapple rings just long enough to get a light char enhances their natural sweetness without making them mushy, so watch them carefully. Using a basting brush to evenly coat your patties with teriyaki sauce helps infuse flavor and prevents the sauce from burning on the grill. When shaping your patties, make a slight indentation in the center to prevent them from puffing up during cooking, ensuring they remain flat and cook evenly. Make sure to assemble your burger promptly after melting the cheese so your melted Swiss cheese stays creamy and your pineapple remains juicy.
Nutritions
The Pineapple Express Burger provides a balanced combination of macronutrients with approximately 28 grams of protein per serving from the lean ground beef, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. The grilled pineapple rings add a source of vitamin C and manganese, contributing antioxidants and digestive enzymes like bromelain. Your meal includes beneficial fats and calcium from the melted Swiss cheese, while the lettuce adds fiber and essential micronutrients. The teriyaki sauce delivers a sweet, tangy flavor but contains added sugars, so portion control can help manage overall sugar intake.
Storage
Store leftover Pineapple Express Burgers wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. Refrigerate at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, use a skillet or grill to maintain juiciness and re-crisp the bun, ensuring the teriyaki sauce and Swiss cheese retain their rich taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option in the Pineapple Express Burger. Instead of Swiss cheese, try provolone or mozzarella to complement the tropical flavors. Use a grill pan indoors if outdoor grilling isn't available, ensuring the pineapple rings and patties still get a good sear. For a spicier twist, add a slice of jalapeno or a spread of spicy mayo under the pineapple ring.
Allergies
The Pineapple Express Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from the Swiss cheese and gluten from the sesame seed buns, which may cause reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Sesame seeds are also a known allergen and can trigger severe responses in some people. You should exercise caution if you have allergies to any of these ingredients to avoid adverse effects.
Why this recipe?
The Pineapple Express Burger from Cheeseburger in Paradise combines juicy beef, grilled pineapple, and a tangy tropical sauce, creating a unique balance of savory and sweet flavors that excites the palate. Its signature blend of fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold taste profiles makes it a standout choice for burger lovers seeking something different. You can recreate this beloved burger at home to enjoy a gourmet experience while saving on restaurant prices. Making a copycat version is worth it for those who appreciate adventurous flavors and want to impress friends with a delicious, exotic-inspired meal.