📖 Instructions

1. Prep the Pineapple: If using a fresh pineapple, slice it into 1/2-inch thick rings. For canned slices, drain them well and pat dry with paper towels. You want them as dry as possible to get a good sear. Set aside.
2. Make the Teriyaki Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon. If you like it thicker, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside to cool a bit. You’ll be using this later, so don’t forget about it!
3. Form the Burger Patties: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of the prepared teriyaki glaze (from step 2), minced green onion, salt, and black pepper. *Gently* is the key here; overmixing can lead to tough burgers. Divide the mixture into equal portions (4 for 1X, 8 for 2X, etc.). Form each portion into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than your burger buns, as they will shrink a little when cooked. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty with your thumb – this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle.
4. Preheat Your Grill: Get your grill ready for medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean! Brush them with a little oil to prevent sticking. A good hot grill is essential for those beautiful grill marks.
5. Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple slices directly on the preheated, oiled grill grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they have nice char marks and are slightly softened and caramelized. Don't overcook them, or they'll get mushy. Once done, remove them from the grill and set aside.
6. Grill the Burgers: Place the seasoned burger patties on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes per side for medium, or longer for well-done. Cooking times will vary depending on your grill and the thickness of your patties. *Pro tip*: Resist the urge to press down on the burgers with your spatula! That just squeezes out all the delicious juices.
7. Glaze the Burgers: During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, generously brush the remaining teriyaki glaze (from step 2) onto both sides of the burger patties. If you're adding cheese, place a slice on each patty right after brushing on the glaze, and cover the grill for a minute or two to let it melt perfectly.
8. Toast the Buns: While the cheese is melting and the burgers are getting their final glaze, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Watch them carefully, they toast fast!
9. Assemble Your Burgers: It's assembly time! Place a grilled burger patty (with melted cheese, if using) onto the bottom half of a toasted bun. Top with a grilled pineapple slice, then add your favorite burger toppings like crisp lettuce, tomato, red onion, or even a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Pop the top bun on, and serve immediately. Enjoy your masterpiece!