The Hawaiian Burger from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks features a juicy beef patty topped with grilled pineapple, melted cheddar cheese, crispy lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled in a toasted sesame seed bun, delivering a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
Equipments
- Grill
- Grill brush
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Pineapple corer or sharp knife
- Basting brush
- Toaster or grill pan (for buns)
- Plate or platter
- Measuring spoons (for sauce)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- Cheddar cheese slices
- Lettuce leaves (crispy)
- Tomato (ripe)
- Barbecue sauce
- Sesame seed buns
- Salt
- Black pepper
Using fresh pineapple rings enhances the sweet and smoky flavor profile of the Hawaiian Burger, but canned pineapple rings can be a convenient alternative without sacrificing taste. Ground beef should be seasoned lightly with salt and black pepper to retain its juiciness and complement the other bold toppings like cheddar cheese and barbecue sauce. Choose crispy lettuce and ripe tomato to add freshness and balance the richness of the beef patty. Toasting the sesame seed buns on a grill or pan adds a slight crunch and prevents sogginess once assembled. You can recreate the Hawaiian Burger from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks at home with these essential ingredients and simple equipment for an authentic taste experience.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Shape ground beef into burger patties; season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Grill pineapple rings 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized; set aside.
- Place burger patties on grill; cook 3–5 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
- Place cheddar cheese slices on patties during the last minute of grilling to melt.
- Toast sesame seed buns on the grill or grill pan until golden.
- Slice tomato into thick rounds.
- Wash and dry lettuce leaves.
- Assemble burgers: Spread barbecue sauce on bottom bun; add lettuce, tomato slice, cheesy beef patty, grilled pineapple ring.
- Drizzle extra barbecue sauce if desired; top with bun.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
The Hawaiian Burger from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks copycat menu offers a juicy beef patty layered with grilled pineapple, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and barbecue sauce on a toasted sesame seed bun. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple rings work well as a convenient substitute, but be sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. You can swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a milder flavor while maintaining meltability. When grilling the beef patty, use a spatula and tongs to flip it carefully to preserve juiciness and shape. Toast your buns on a grill pan or toaster until golden brown to add crisp texture and enhance overall flavor.
Tips
Ensure your grill is properly preheated before cooking to achieve a perfect sear on both the beef patties and pineapple rings. Season the ground beef generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors and avoid overhandling the meat to keep the patties juicy. When melting cheddar cheese on the patties, add it during the last minute of grilling to prevent overcooking the cheese or burger. Toast the sesame seed buns just before assembling to maintain their crisp texture and prevent sogginess from the barbecue sauce.
Nutritions
Your Hawaiian Burger offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, with the ground beef patty providing high-quality protein and essential amino acids important for muscle repair and growth. Grilled pineapple adds natural sweetness and a good source of vitamins C and manganese, which support immune function and antioxidant defenses. The cheddar cheese contributes calcium and fat-soluble vitamins A and D, while the fresh lettuce and tomato supply dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and potassium for heart health. The sesame seed bun adds carbohydrates for energy, and the barbecue sauce enhances flavor but should be consumed in moderation due to added sugars and sodium.
Storage
Store leftover Hawaiian Burger components separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Wrap the grilled beef patties and pineapple rings in aluminum foil or place in airtight containers, refrigerating promptly within two hours of cooking. Your buns, lettuce, and tomato slices should be kept chilled in sealed bags or containers to preserve texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for the beef patty to create a lighter or vegetarian version of the Hawaiian Burger. Instead of cheddar cheese, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance. Grilling the pineapple adds sweetness, but caramelizing it in a hot skillet with a bit of brown sugar can achieve a similar effect if a grill is unavailable. Toasting the buns in butter on a stovetop pan enhances flavor and texture, providing a crispy contrast to the tender burger.
Allergies
The Hawaiian Burger contains common allergens such as sesame seeds from the bun and dairy from the cheddar cheese, which may cause reactions for those with allergies to these ingredients. The barbecue sauce may also contain soy or gluten, depending on its preparation, so you should check the specific brand or recipe for potential allergens. If you have food sensitivities, take caution with the combination of ingredients, especially the beef patty and pineapple, which occasionally trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
Why this recipe?
The Hawaiian Burger at Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks combines juicy, flame-grilled beef with sweet, grilled pineapple and smoky bacon, creating a perfect balance of savory and tropical flavors that appeals to diverse palates. Its unique combination of textures--from the tender patty to the caramelized pineapple--offers a one-of-a-kind taste experience that stands out among traditional burger options. You'll find it worth trying to make a copycat version at home to enjoy this gourmet blend on your own schedule, experimenting with fresh ingredients and personalized toppings to elevate your burger nights. Replicating this iconic menu item allows you to capture the essence of the Islands brand and savor a beloved classic with your own creative twist.