If you’re craving a burger with serious flavor but a playful, tropical twist, the Teriyaki Beef Burger is about to become your new obsession. This gem layers a juicy beef patty glazed with sticky-sweet teriyaki, gooey cheese, grilled pineapple, crisp lettuce, and a punchy teriyaki mayo all in a soft, toasty bun. Whether you’re firing up the grill for friends or savoring a special weeknight dinner, every bite delivers that irresistible balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of zippy spice. The Teriyaki Beef Burger fits the bill for backyard parties or a memorable burger night at home — it’s a main dish with major personality!

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of bold, simple ingredients can create such an unforgettable burger. Each one brings something special: from umami beef and tangy teriyaki to the sunny burst of pineapple and creamy mayo — every element is working hard for big flavor and a picture-perfect burger.
- Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20): The star of the show; a bit of fat keeps the patties juicy and flavorful.
- Teriyaki sauce (1/4 cup + more for brushing): Brings the unmistakable sweet, salty zing that defines this burger.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds garlicky depth to the beef for even more umami.
- Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Offers subtle warmth and a distinctly Asian aroma.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a tiny kick and keeps the flavors lively.
- Hamburger buns (4): Soft and sturdy to soak up sauce and keep all the layers intact.
- Pineapple rings (4, fresh or canned): Grill for caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- Swiss or provolone cheese (4 slices): For that irresistible gooey melt atop your patty.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): The creamy base for a luxe burger sauce.
- Teriyaki sauce for mayo (1 tablespoon): Amps up the flavor in your spread.
- Lettuce leaves: Brings cool crunch and a pop of fresh green.
- Red onion slices (optional): Adds sharpness and a lovely purple edge if you crave extra bite.
- Oil for grilling: Keeps everything from sticking and helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
How to Make Teriyaki Beef Burger
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and add your ground beef, teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Mix everything just until combined; overmixing can make your burgers dense. Shape the mixture into four even patties, making them a touch wider than your buns (they’ll shrink a smidge as they cook). If you’ve got a few extra minutes, chill the patties in the fridge for 10–15 minutes — it helps them hold together beautifully on the grill.
Step 2: Heat the Grill or Skillet
Get your grill or skillet hot over medium-high heat and brush the surface lightly with oil. You want it hot enough that the patties sizzle as soon as they hit the surface, locking in those juices and creating a delicious crust. If you’re using an outdoor grill, oil the grates just before grilling to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill and Glaze the Burgers
Place the beef patties on the grill. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, flipping just once for even cooking. During the last minute, brush each patty with extra teriyaki sauce for a glossy, flavorful coating. Now’s the moment to top each burger with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese, and cover the grill or pan briefly so it melts into gooey perfection.
Step 4: Grill the Pineapple and Mix the Mayo
While your burgers are sizzling away, pop the pineapple rings on the grill (or a skillet if that’s what you have). Grill them 1–2 minutes on each side until they’re caramelized and have beautiful char lines. In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and tablespoon of teriyaki sauce for your burger spread — quick, tangy, and full of flavor.
Step 5: Build the Teriyaki Beef Burger
Time for assembly! Start by spreading a generous layer of teriyaki mayo on the bottom bun. Add a crisp lettuce leaf, the cheesy hot burger patty, a slice of grilled pineapple, and a few red onion rings if you fancy. Cap it with the top bun and bask in the glory of your Teriyaki Beef Burger masterpiece. Serve immediately, while everything is hot and melty.
How to Serve Teriyaki Beef Burger

Garnishes
A beautiful burger deserves a beautiful finish. Try a scatter of sesame seeds over the pineapple, a dab of extra teriyaki mayo on the plate, or a few fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of greenery. Slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha atop the patty will thrill anyone who loves big, bold flavors.
Side Dishes
The Teriyaki Beef Burger is crave-worthy all by itself, but if you want a full plate, classic sweet potato fries, crispy Asian slaw, or even some steamed edamame make perfect sides. For something refreshing, offer a fruit salad with mango and lime as a bright counterpoint to the savory burger.
Creative Ways to Present
Build your Teriyaki Beef Burger sliders for parties using mini buns, or stack everything open-faced on toasted sourdough for a knife-and-fork treat. For a fun backyard burger bar, lay out all the fixings—grilled pineapples, extra sauces, crunchy lettuce, and more—so everyone can make their burger just the way they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra burgers, let the patties cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Store the toppings and buns separately in the fridge to keep everything fresh and toasty when you’re ready for round two.
Freezing
For future cravings, wrap cooked or uncooked burger patties tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating, and bring to room temperature for the best results.
Reheating
Warm leftover burger patties gently in a skillet or wrapped in foil in a 325°F oven until heated through. Avoid the microwave, which can toughen the meat. Reheat the pineapple and buns separately for a fresh-off-the-grill feel. Spread on fresh teriyaki mayo before assembling the burger again.
FAQs
Can I make the Teriyaki Beef Burger with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative. Just be gentle when forming your patties, as they can be a bit more delicate, and don’t skip the teriyaki glaze for maximum flavor.
Should I toast the hamburger buns?
Yes, toasting the buns is a small step that yields big results. A quick trip onto the grill or in a hot skillet gives them a golden edge and helps the buns hold up to the juicy burger and sauces.
Can I use homemade teriyaki sauce?
Go for it! A homemade teriyaki sauce adds a personal touch—just make sure it’s thick enough to glaze and packed with lots of flavor. Store-bought works great for convenience, too.
What other cheeses work in a Teriyaki Beef Burger?
While Swiss and provolone melt beautifully, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile. Melty cheeses are best for that satisfying, oozy bite.
How can I make the burger spicy?
If spicy is your style, mix a little sriracha or chili paste into your teriyaki mayo, or top your burger with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for that extra kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about sharing a Teriyaki Beef Burger, with its golden pineapple, melty cheese, and tangy-sweet glaze. Whether you grill them for friends or treat yourself to a special burger night, you’re in for a flavor adventure. Don’t be surprised when this becomes your most-requested burger!
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Teriyaki Beef Burger Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a taste of the tropics with these juicy and flavorful Teriyaki Beef Burgers. Grilled to perfection and topped with grilled pineapple, these burgers are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 4 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce (for mayo)
- Lettuce leaves
- Red onion slices (optional)
- Oil for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare Burger Patties: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Form into 4 patties and chill.
- Cook Burgers: Preheat grill or skillet. Cook burgers for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with teriyaki sauce. Add cheese and melt.
- Grill Pineapple: Grill pineapple rings for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Make Teriyaki Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with teriyaki sauce.
- Assemble: Spread teriyaki mayo on buns, add lettuce, burger patty, grilled pineapple, and onion. Serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Toasting the buns adds extra flavor and structure.
- For a spicier kick, add sriracha to the teriyaki mayo.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg