These Hawaiian turkey burgers are juicy, flavorful, and finished with a healthy homemade teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple.
Summer calls for bright, easy meals and these Hawaiian turkey burgers deliver. Ground turkey is seasoned with teriyaki, fresh ginger, cilantro and onion, then mixed with shredded zucchini to keep the patties moist without breadcrumbs or eggs. Grill the burgers and pineapple for a smoky-sweet finish, then assemble with lettuce, red onion and extra teriyaki for a satisfying sandwich that’s lighter but full of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground turkey – lean ground turkey works great; ground chicken or beef can be substituted.
- Teriyaki sauce – a homemade teriyaki made from soy sauce, garlic, pineapple juice, ginger and honey is ideal; reserve a small amount for drizzling. Bottled teriyaki works too.
- Onion – finely chopped red onion in the mix and sliced rings for topping.
- Zucchini – shredded zucchini adds moisture and helps bind the patties; squeeze out excess water first.
- Fresh ginger – grated fresh ginger gives the best flavor; substitute 1/4 tsp ground ginger only if needed.
- Fresh cilantro – adds bright, fresh flavor; basil is a good alternative if you prefer.
- Pineapple – grill fresh pineapple rings to concentrate their sweetness and add smoky notes to the burger.
How to Make Hawaiian Turkey Burgers
Mix the ground turkey with teriyaki sauce, shredded zucchini (well drained), chopped red onion, cilantro, grated ginger, and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Gently combine—overmixing can make the burgers dense. Form into four patties, wetting your hands slightly to prevent sticking. If you prefer firmer patties, add 1 egg and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, but they’re not required.
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high and lightly oil the surface. Cook the burgers 5–6 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Brush with reserved teriyaki while cooking if desired. Grill pineapple rings about 3 minutes per side until caramelized. Toast buns on the grill for extra flavor. This recipe yields four burgers; double ingredients for larger crowds.
How to Assemble the Turkey Burgers
Layer the bottom bun (or a lettuce leaf) with lettuce, then a turkey patty, a grilled pineapple ring and red onion rings. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce and add the top bun. Optional additions: avocado slices, extra cilantro, a slice of Havarti or pepper jack, or a smear of tangy mayo. Serve on whole wheat buns, in lettuce cups, or over a salad.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Turkey Burgers
- Fresh pineapple salsa
- Sweet and spicy sweet potato fries
- Pineapple cauliflower rice
- Air fryer Brussels sprouts
- Coconut lime cilantro quinoa
Enjoy these Hawaiian turkey burgers—if you try them, leave a rating and share your photos on Instagram using the hashtag #eatyourselfskinny.
Hawaiian Turkey Burgers
Ingredients
For the burgers:
- 1 lb 94% lean ground turkey
- 2 Tbsp teriyaki sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/2 cup shredded zucchini, water squeezed out
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 whole wheat buns or lettuce cups
Toppings:
- 4 grilled pineapple rings
- Red onion, sliced into rings
- Leafy lettuce
- Extra teriyaki sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, teriyaki sauce, shredded zucchini, onion, cilantro, ginger, and salt and pepper. Mix gently and shape into 4 patties.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil. Cook the burgers 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and no longer pink, or until they reach 165°F. Brush with reserved teriyaki if desired.
- Grill pineapple rings about 3 minutes per side until caramelized.
- Assemble burgers: place lettuce on the bottom bun, add the turkey patty, top with a pineapple ring and red onion, drizzle with teriyaki and add the top bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
Store cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 burger | Calories: 340 kcal | Carbohydrates: 29.2 g | Protein: 28.5 g | Fat: 8.6 g | Saturated Fat: 1.7 g | Sodium: 638.4 mg | Fiber: 3.9 g | Sugar: 8.1 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.