This Teriyaki Burger Recipe is an absolute summer must-try! Elevate your grilling game with perfectly cooked, juicy patties, a vibrant homemade pineapple teriyaki sauce, sweet grilled pineapple, creamy Swiss cheese, and fresh, crisp vegetables, all nestled in a lightly toasted brioche bun. It’s a flavor explosion that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes, making it an unforgettable meal for any barbecue or weeknight dinner.

For a complete and delightful meal, pair this incredible burger with refreshing fruit salad, a zesty Asian cucumber salad, or classic roasted sweet potatoes. Each side complements the rich flavors of the Teriyaki Burger beautifully, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

The Best Teriyaki Burger Recipe: A Culinary Journey to Flavor Paradise

My journey to perfecting the Teriyaki Burger began on one of my first dates with my husband, at a place called Rumbi Grill. Their “Kahuna Burger,” a legendary teriyaki burger piled high with toppings and served with sweet potato fries, was his absolute favorite. That unforgettable experience sparked a culinary quest to recreate and even surpass that iconic taste at home. Today, I’m thrilled to share my own copycat version, which, according to my husband, is “way better than the original.”

What makes this particular Teriyaki Burger stand out is the exquisite harmony of flavors and textures. Imagine a perfectly grilled, succulent beef patty infused with aromatic garlic and ginger, generously basted with a sweet and tangy pineapple teriyaki sauce. This masterpiece is then crowned with a slice of perfectly melted Swiss cheese, caramelized grilled pineapple rings that add a burst of tropical sweetness, and a medley of fresh, garden-crisp vegetables. All of this gloriousness is tucked into a soft, buttery, and lightly toasted brioche bun, creating an irresistible bite every single time.

This isn’t just a burger; it’s an experience. It’s a taste of summer, a symphony of sweet, savory, and umami notes that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to guide you to burger perfection, promising a meal that’s both impressive and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to ditch those takeout menus and impress your family and friends with a homemade masterpiece that truly delivers on flavor and fun.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Teriyaki Burger

• Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of homemade pineapple teriyaki sauce, savory beef, and sweet grilled pineapple creates an explosion of taste that’s both comforting and exotic.
• Perfectly Balanced: This burger strikes a delightful balance between sweet, tangy, and savory, ensuring every bite is exciting and satisfying without being overwhelming.
• Customizable: While we provide the ultimate recipe, you can easily adjust toppings and spice levels to suit your personal preference, making it perfect for everyone.
• Summer Favorite: Ideal for backyard BBQs, picnics, or any occasion that calls for a delicious grilled meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that screams summer fun.
• Better Than Restaurant Quality: Forget diner burgers! This homemade version elevates the classic burger to a gourmet level with fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation.

Essential Ingredients for Your Teriyaki Burger Masterpiece

Crafting the perfect Teriyaki Burger starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that coveted balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why:

For the Juicy Burger Patties:

• Ground Beef (80/20 Chuck): This fat-to-lean ratio is crucial for incredibly juicy and flavorful burgers. The fat renders during cooking, keeping the patties moist. Always keep the beef very cold until just before forming the patties to prevent overworking and maintain tenderness.
• Fresh Garlic & Ginger: Finely chopped or grated, these aromatics are the secret to infusing the beef patties with an authentic, zesty Asian flavor that complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce: A touch of soy sauce in the patty mixture enhances the umami depth without making it overly salty. Opt for reduced-sodium to better control the overall saltiness of the burger.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Simple seasonings are all you need to bring out the natural flavors of the beef. Season liberally right before grilling.

For the Signature Sweet Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce:

• Cornstarch & Cold Water: This mixture creates a slurry, essential for thickening the sauce to a perfect, glossy consistency that clings beautifully to the burger.
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce: Forms the savory base of our teriyaki sauce.
• 100% Pineapple Juice: The star ingredient that delivers a bright, sweet, and tangy tropical punch, making this teriyaki sauce truly unique.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramelized sweetness that balances the savory soy sauce and tart pineapple juice.
• Fresh Ginger (Grated): Provides a warm, spicy undertone, enhancing the sauce’s aromatic profile.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Offers a subtle nutty flavor and delightful texture, a classic teriyaki finish.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth to the sauce, elevating its complexity.

For Assembly and Toppings:

• Brioche Buns: These rich, buttery, and slightly sweet buns are the perfect vehicle for our flavorful burger. Lightly toasting them adds a crucial textural contrast and prevents them from getting soggy.
• Swiss Cheese: Its mild, nutty flavor and excellent melting properties make it an ideal choice to crown your patty, adding a creamy, savory layer.
• Fresh Pineapple Slices: Grilling fresh pineapple intensifies its sweetness and caramelizes its edges, adding a delightful chew and a burst of tropical flavor that perfectly mirrors the sauce. A little vegetable oil helps prevent sticking.
• Unsalted Butter: Used to generously brush the brioche buns, ensuring they toast to a golden, crispy perfection.
• Your Favorite Toppings: Customize your burger with classic additions like creamy mayo, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onion. These fresh elements provide crucial crunch and freshness against the rich burger.

Crafting Your Ultimate Teriyaki Burger: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Sweet Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until no lumps remain; set aside. In a small pan, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and grated ginger over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces and flavors meld. Re-whisk the cornstarch slurry and slowly pour it into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Remove from heat, stir in sesame seeds and red pepper flakes (if using), and set aside to cool.
2. Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to a high temperature, aiming for 450-475°F (232-246°C). A hot grill is key for a good sear.
3. Form the Burger Patties: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cold ground beef, minced garlic, grated ginger, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, salt, and pepper. The key here is to mix minimally—just enough to incorporate the ingredients, typically no longer than 30-40 seconds. Overworking the meat can lead to tough burgers.
4. Shape and Chill Patties: Line a large sheet pan with two layers of parchment paper. Divide the seasoned beef into 3 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty about 4 to 4.5 inches across and 1 inch thick. Crucially, make a shallow depression in the center of each patty (this prevents the burger from puffing up into a ball during cooking). Shaping on the tray helps prevent overhandling. Cover the patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the grill is fully preheated. This chilling step helps them hold their shape.
5. Prepare the Grill and Pineapple: Once the grill is hot, clean the grates thoroughly with a grill brush. Generously oil the clean grill grates (a rolled-up paper towel soaked in vegetable oil and held with tongs works perfectly). Drizzle the fresh pineapple slices with a little vegetable oil. Place them on the hot grill and cook for 2-4 minutes per side, flipping once, until they are tender, golden, and lightly charred with beautiful grill marks. Remove and set aside. (Optional: grill red onion slices as well, drizzling with oil and cooking 1-3 minutes per side until crisp-tender and charred.)
6. Grill the Burgers: Remove the chilled patties from the fridge. Hold your hand 6-7 inches above the meat and liberally sprinkle both sides of the patties with salt and pepper (about 1.5 teaspoons of each for all patties). In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice with 2 tablespoons of the prepared sweet teriyaki sauce for basting. Place the patties, indented side down, onto the hot grill.
7. Cook to Desired Doneness: Cook your burgers to your preferred doneness, flipping only once at the halfway mark. Avoid pressing down on the patties, as this squeezes out valuable juices and flavor. Use a wide metal spatula for best results. Baste the burgers occasionally with the pineapple juice and teriyaki sauce mixture as they cook.
   • Rare: 125°F (approx. 4 minutes total)
   • Medium-Rare: 135°F (approx. 5 minutes total)
   • Medium: 145°F (approx. 6-7 minutes total)
   • Well-Done: 160°F (approx. 8 minutes total)
8. Add Cheese & Rest: In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty. Once melted, remove the burgers to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for 1-2 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful burger.
9. Toast the Buns: While the patties rest, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Brush both cut sides of the brioche buns with melted butter. Place the buttered buns onto the grill (over indirect heat, along the edges of the grill) for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until lightly golden and toasted. Watch them carefully as they toast quickly.
10. Assemble Your Burger: To assemble, spread a layer of mayo on both sides of the toasted brioche buns. Layer with fresh lettuce, a slice of tomato, the cheese-covered burger patty, a grilled pineapple slice, a generous spoonful (or two!) of the sweet teriyaki sauce, and grilled red onions (if using). Cap it with the top bun and serve immediately. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Expert Tips for the Best Teriyaki Burger Every Time

• Don’t Overmix the Meat: Gently combine the ground beef with seasonings. Overmixing makes the patties dense and tough.
• Keep the Beef Cold: Work with cold ground beef to help maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming greasy.
• The Thumbprint Trick: Always create a shallow depression in the center of each patty. This prevents the burger from bulging in the middle and shrinking excessively while cooking.
• Generously Oil Your Grill: Prevent sticking by oiling your clean grill grates just before placing the patties and pineapple on them.
• Don’t Press the Patties: Resist the urge to press down on the burgers with your spatula. This pushes out all the delicious juices, leading to dry, less flavorful burgers.
• Baste for Extra Flavor: The pineapple juice and teriyaki sauce basting liquid adds incredible flavor and moisture to the patties as they grill.
• Fresh Pineapple is Key: While canned can work in a pinch, fresh pineapple grilled until caramelized offers superior flavor and texture that truly elevates the burger.
• Toast Your Buns: Buttered and toasted buns add a delightful crunch and prevent them from getting soggy from the juicy burger and sauce.

Creative Variations & Customizations

• Protein Swaps: Not a beef fan? Try ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. For a vegetarian take, use a portobello mushroom cap or a plant-based burger patty, adapting the cooking times accordingly.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes in the teriyaki sauce for a spicier kick, or add a dash of sriracha mayo to your bun.
• Cheese Alternatives: While Swiss is delicious, experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a fried egg can make fantastic additions to your burger.
• Bun Choices: If brioche isn’t your preference, try pretzel buns, sesame seed buns, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.

Serve Teriyaki Burgers With These Delicious Sides:

Complement your flavorful Teriyaki Burger with an array of delectable side dishes that enhance the overall meal. Here are some fantastic pairings:

The Ultimate Teriyaki Burger Recipe Card

This comprehensive recipe will guide you through creating the most delicious Teriyaki Burger you’ve ever tasted. With its juicy beef patties, homemade sweet pineapple teriyaki sauce, grilled pineapple, and fresh toppings, it’s destined to become a new favorite.

Teriyaki Burger Recipe

By Chelsea Lords

This Teriyaki Burger recipe is a summer must! Juicy patties topped with a sweet pineapple teriyaki sauce, grilled pineapple, fresh veggies, Swiss cheese, all on toasted brioche buns.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Chilling Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 3 burgers (recipe easily doubles/triples)

Equipment

• Small pan or small pot
• Grill
• Large sheet pan (15″ x 21″)
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

Burgers

• 1 pound ground beef 80/20, keep very cold
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated on a fine grater
• 2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Buns and Toppings

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 brioche buns
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (for basting)
• 3 slices Swiss cheese
• 6 slices fresh pineapple, plus a little vegetable oil for grilling
• Toppings as desired (see note 1)

Sweet Teriyaki Sauce (see note 2)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup 100% pineapple juice
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated on a fine grater
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Teriyaki Sauce: Combine cornstarch and cold water; stir until dissolved. In a small pan, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes until slightly reduced. Whisk the cornstarch-water mixture again and pour into the pan, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Heat Grill: Preheat grill to 450-475°F.
3. Prepare Burger Mix: In a large mixing bowl, gently add cold ground beef, minced garlic, grated ginger, and 2 teaspoons of soy sauce. Mix just a few times (30-40 seconds) until ingredients are incorporated. Do not overwork the meat.
4. Form Patties: Line a large sheet pan with two layers of parchment paper. Divide the meat into 3 equal parts. Gently form each portion into a patty about 4 to 4.5 inches across and 1 inch thick. Make a shallow depression in the middle of each patty. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the grill is completely heated.
5. Oil Grill & Season Patties: Clean the preheated grill with a brush and generously oil the grates (e.g., using an oil-drenched paper towel held with tongs). Remove burgers from the fridge and liberally sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides (about 1.5 teaspoons each total). In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons pineapple juice and 2 tablespoons sweet teriyaki sauce for basting.
6. Grill Pineapple (and Onions): Drizzle vegetable oil over pineapple slices. Place on the heated grill and cook, flipping once, until tender, golden, and lightly charred—about 2-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. Optionally, drizzle red onions with vegetable oil and grill for 1-3 minutes per side.
7. Grill Burgers: Place patties indented side down on the grill. Cook to desired doneness (Rare: 125°F/4 mins, Medium-Rare: 135°F/5 mins, Medium: 145°F/6-7 mins, Well-Done: 160°F/8 mins), flipping once at the halfway mark. Do not press down on the patties. Baste burgers with the prepared sauce occasionally as you grill.
8. Add Cheese & Rest: In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of Swiss cheese to each patty. Remove patties to a plate and cover with foil to rest for 1-2 minutes.
9. Toast Buns: Melt 2 tablespoons butter and brush over both sides of the brioche buns. Place buttered buns on the grill (over indirect heat) for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until lightly toasted. Watch carefully.
10. Assemble: Assemble burgers by spreading mayo on buns, then layering with lettuce, tomato, onion, the cheese-covered burger patty, grilled pineapple, a generous spoonful (or 2) of sweet teriyaki sauce, and the top bun. Enjoy immediately.

Recipe Notes

• Note 1: Burger toppings typically include mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and teriyaki sauce. Feel free to customize!
• Note 2: This recipe yields more teriyaki sauce than needed for 3 burgers. You can halve the sauce recipe or save the extra for other dishes.
• Storage: Store leftover teriyaki burger patties and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep buns separate. For longer storage, freeze patties in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.

Nutrition Information

(Approximate values per serving)

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 1062kcal | Carbohydrates: 84g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 62g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Cholesterol: 287mg | Sodium: 1830mg | Potassium: 726mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 1216IU | Vitamin C: 86mg | Calcium: 254mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

We hope you love this incredible Teriyaki Burger as much as we do! It’s a fantastic recipe to master for your summer gatherings or any time you crave a burst of tropical, savory flavor. Happy grilling!