Hawaiian Turkey Burgers with Grilled Pineapple and Teriyaki

These Hawaiian turkey burgers are bursting with flavor—made with a healthy homemade teriyaki-style sauce, shredded zucchini for moisture, fresh cilantro and onion, and finished with sweet grilled pineapple.

Here’s a perfect summer meal: Hawaiian turkey burgers that are simple to prepare, lighter than traditional beef burgers, and full of tropical flavor. Lean ground turkey keeps the burgers lower in fat, while two tablespoons of a savory-sweet teriyaki-style sauce add a bright, tangy note. Shredded zucchini adds moisture and acts as a binder so these patties hold together without breadcrumbs or eggs, and fresh cilantro and onion bring brightness. Top each burger with a hot grilled pineapple ring and red onion for a delightful sweet-and-savory bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground turkey – lean ground turkey (94% lean) works well; ground chicken or lean beef can be substituted if preferred.
• Teriyaki-style sauce – use a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce. Reserve a little to brush on the burgers while cooking and to drizzle when serving.
• Onion – finely chopped red onion for the burger mixture and sliced rings for topping.
• Zucchini – about 1/2 cup shredded zucchini, with excess water squeezed out. This keeps burgers moist and helps them bind.
• Fresh ginger – grated fresh ginger adds brightness. If you must, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger can replace 1 teaspoon fresh, but fresh is recommended.
• Fresh cilantro – chopped cilantro gives a fresh herb note; basil could be used as an alternative if preferred.
• Pineapple – sliced into rings and grilled until caramelized; this is a must for the classic Hawaiian flavor.
• Salt and pepper – to taste.
• Whole wheat buns or lettuce cups – serve on buns or for a lower-carb option, wrap in lettuce or serve over salad.

How to Make Hawaiian Turkey Burgers

These burgers are quick to prepare and grill. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey with teriyaki sauce, shredded zucchini (well drained), finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, grated ginger, and salt and pepper. Avoid over-mixing so the texture stays tender. Form the mixture into four even patties; dampening your hands slightly will help prevent sticking.

Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook the patties about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they are completely cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Brush the burgers with a little reserved teriyaki sauce during the last minute of cooking for extra glaze. While the patties cook, grill the pineapple rings approximately 3 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly charred. Toasting the buns on the grill for 30–60 seconds adds great texture and flavor.

How to Assemble the Turkey Burgers

Layer your burger to highlight the flavors and textures. Start with lettuce on the bottom bun (or use leafy lettuce as the wrap), add the turkey patty, then a grilled pineapple ring and a few red onion rings. Drizzle with extra teriyaki-style sauce and top with the bun. Optional additions that pair well include avocado slices, extra cilantro, or a slice of mild cheese such as Havarti or pepper jack for a spicier note. A light smear of mayonnaise or a tangy spread can also be delicious—customize to your taste.

If you prefer a lower carb option, skip the bun and serve the burger in lettuce cups or atop a mixed green salad. These burgers reheat well, making them suitable for meal prep or packed lunches.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Turkey Burgers

• Fresh pineapple salsa or a simple mango salsa for a bright accompaniment.
• Sweet potato fries or crispy oven-baked fries for a slightly sweet contrast.
• Grilled or air-fried vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or a light cauliflower rice seasoned with pineapple and herbs.
• Coconut lime cilantro quinoa or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Recipe Card

If you try this recipe, enjoy the fresh contrast of sweet grilled pineapple with savory turkey and tangy teriyaki sauce. These burgers are a great, lighter twist on classic flavors and perfect for summer grilling.