When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of firing up the grill and indulging in a meal that transports you to a tropical paradise. That’s exactly what happened one balmy evening in my family’s backyard when I decided to create a burger that could rival any island getaway. The inspiration struck during a family vacation to Hawaii, where I fell head over heels for the local flavors and laid-back vibe. Imagine this: the sun setting over the Pacific, the smell of grilled seafood in the air, and a piña colada in hand. That experience became the spark for this unique Piña Colada Burger.
We were staying at a quaint beachfront cottage, and one night, my cousin, who’s known for her adventurous palate, suggested we try making our own piña coladas. We had a blast blending together creamy coconut cream, sweet pineapple, and a hint of rum, which led to some pretty unforgettable cocktails. That drink not only became a vacation staple but also inspired me to bring a touch of that tropical magic back home. I wanted to capture that same vibrant flavor and fun in a dish that could be enjoyed by family and friends around a grill.
As we gathered for a cookout back home, I decided to reinvent the classic burger by infusing it with the essence of that vacation cocktail. Picture this: succulent beef patties kissed with teriyaki sauce, topped with a luscious piña colada sauce made from coconut cream and crushed pineapple, all nestled between toasted brioche buns. The combination of savory and sweet, with the crispy bacon and juicy pineapple slices, delivers a taste of the tropics with every bite. It’s a recipe that not only feeds the belly but also brings people together, just like those unforgettable nights under the Hawaiian stars.
This Piña Colada Burger is perfect for your next summer BBQ or casual get-together. It’s more than just a burger; it’s a flavor-packed journey to a tropical island, evoking the joy and relaxation of that unforgettable vacation. So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and let this burger transport you to paradise.
Piña Colada Burger
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, plus additional for brushing
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices Colby Jack cheese
- 1 ⅔ cups coconut cream
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ⅓ cup shredded coconut
- 4 slices cooked bacon
- 4 fresh pineapple slices
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅔ cup teriyaki sauce, divided
- 1 ⅛ cups sour cream
Directions
- Preheat your grill to high heat.
- Prepare the piña colada sauce by combining coconut cream, crushed pineapple, sour cream, and shredded coconut in a mixing bowl.
- In another bowl, mix the ground beef with ¼ cup of teriyaki sauce until well combined. Form the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Brush each patty with melted butter and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Grill the pineapple slices for about 2 minutes on each side until they have nice grill marks.
- Cook the beef patties on the grill for 4-7 minutes on the first side, basting with more teriyaki sauce. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 3-6 minutes. Add a slice of cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of grilling to allow it to melt.
- Lightly toast the brioche buns on the grill for about 30 seconds.
- Mix ⅓ cup of the piña colada sauce with the mayonnaise in a small bowl.
- Spread the piña colada-mayonnaise mixture on the toasted buns. Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun, topping with a grilled pineapple slice and a slice of bacon.
- Serve your tropical burgers and enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover piña colada sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cooked burger patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat patties on a grill or stovetop to maintain flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips
For a richer flavor, try using beef with a higher fat content for the patties. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of coconut cream and pineapple. You can also use grilled chicken patties as a lighter alternative to beef.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers pair well with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad. Consider serving them with a fruity cocktail like a classic Piña Colada to complement the tropical flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can replace Colby Jack cheese with any other melty cheese such as Swiss or cheddar. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese and coconut yogurt in place of sour cream.
Seasonal Variations
In the winter, substitute fresh pineapple with caramelized apples or pears for a seasonal twist. You can also use a spiced BBQ sauce instead of teriyaki for a winter-friendly flavor profile.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy, including cheese, butter, and sour cream. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based alternatives. It also contains coconut, which is a common allergen, so be sure to use coconut-free ingredients if needed.
FAQ:
How do I prevent my burger patties from falling apart on the grill?
Make sure the patties are well-formed and not too thin. Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, as this can cause them to break apart. Also, ensure your grill grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Can I make the piña colada sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the piña colada sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.
What can I use instead of brioche buns?
You can use any type of burger bun you prefer, such as whole wheat, sesame seed, or even a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.
How do I know when my burger patties are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your burger patties are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. If you don’t have a thermometer, the patties should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon can be used. Just add it to the burgers during the assembly phase. You might want to heat it slightly to enhance its flavor and crispiness.
Can I freeze the burger patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the grilling time.
Piña Colada Burger
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices Colby Jack cheese
- 1 ⅔ cups coconut cream
- 1 cup drained crushed pineapple
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ⅓ cup shredded coconut
- 4 cooked bacon slices
- 4 slices fresh pineapple
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅔ cup teriyaki sauce separated
- 1 ⅛ cups sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to high.
- For the piña colada sauce, mix together the coconut cream, crushed pineapple, sour cream, and shredded coconut in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef with ¼ cup of the teriyaki sauce, mixing until well-blended. Shape the mixture into 4 equal burger patties.
- Brush each patty with melted butter and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Grill the pineapple slices for about 2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
- Cook the burger patties on the grill for 4-7 minutes on the first side, brushing them with more teriyaki sauce. Flip them over and grill for an additional 3-6 minutes. Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt.
- Lightly toast the brioche buns on the grill for about 30 seconds.
- In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup of the piña colada sauce with the mayonnaise, mixing well.
- Spread the piña colada-mayonnaise blend onto the toasted buns. Assemble the burgers by layering each bun with a burger patty, grilled pineapple slice, and bacon.
- Serve and enjoy your tropical-inspired burgers!
