Hawaiian Turkey Burgers with Teriyaki Glaze, Grilled Pineapple

These Hawaiian turkey burgers deliver big summer flavor with a healthy homemade teriyaki glaze, fresh cilantro and red onion, and juicy grilled pineapple on top.

If you’re looking for a bright, healthy burger that tastes like summer, these Hawaiian turkey burgers are perfect. Made with lean ground turkey, a touch of shredded zucchini for moisture, fresh herbs and ginger, and a sweet-savory teriyaki flavor, they’re finished with grilled pineapple and red onion for a tropical twist. They’re easy to prepare on a grill, grill pan, or skillet and can be served on whole wheat buns, in lettuce wraps, or over a salad for lower carbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients make four hearty Hawaiian turkey burgers. Swap ground chicken or lean beef if preferred, and use your favorite bottled teriyaki if you don’t want to make a homemade sauce.

• 1 lb 94% lean ground turkey
• 2 Tbsp teriyaki sauce — plus extra for drizzling (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup shredded zucchini, water squeezed out
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (reserve some rings for topping)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (substitute fresh basil if you prefer)
• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger if necessary)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 whole wheat buns or large lettuce leaves for wraps

How to Make Hawaiian Turkey Burgers

Follow these simple steps for juicy, flavorful turkey burgers that hold together without breadcrumbs or eggs.

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, teriyaki sauce, shredded zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture first), finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently—overworking the meat can make the burgers dense and tough.
2. Shape the mixture into four even patties. Wetting your hands slightly before forming the patties helps prevent sticking.
3. Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook the patties 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with extra teriyaki sauce while cooking if desired for a glaze.
4. While the burgers cook, grill pineapple rings for about 3 minutes per side until slightly caramelized and warmed through.
5. Toast buns on the grill briefly if using buns.

How to Assemble the Turkey Burgers

Assembly is quick and customizable. A typical build that balances texture and flavor:

• Bottom bun or lettuce leaf
• Leafy lettuce
• Turkey patty
• Grilled pineapple ring
• Red onion rings
• Drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce
• Top bun (or another lettuce leaf if wrapping)

Optional additions: sliced avocado, extra cilantro, a slice of cheese (Havarti or pepper jack pair well), or a smear of mayo for richness. For a low-carb option, skip the bun and enjoy the patty in a lettuce cup or on a bed of greens.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Turkey Burgers

These burgers pair beautifully with bright, tropical or slightly spicy sides. Try one of the following:

• Fresh pineapple salsa or a simple mango salsa for sweetness and acidity
• Sweet and spicy sweet potato fries or baked regular fries
• Pineapple cauliflower rice or coconut lime cilantro quinoa to keep the tropical theme
• Air-fried Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad to add vegetables

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Servings: 4 burgers

Instructions (Condensed)

• Mix turkey, teriyaki, zucchini, onion, cilantro, ginger, salt and pepper. Shape into 4 patties.
• Grill or pan-fry 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Brush with extra sauce if desired.
• Grill pineapple 3 minutes per side. Toast buns if using.
• Layer lettuce, burger, pineapple, onion, and drizzle with teriyaki. Serve immediately.

Storage and Notes

Store cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. If you prefer firmer patties, add 1 beaten egg and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs to the mixture before shaping.

Enjoy these Hawaiian turkey burgers as a lighter, flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers. The grilled pineapple and teriyaki add bright sweetness while the zucchini keeps the patties moist and tender—perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.