Pineapple Bacon Burger

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. Prepare Patties:
   In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, avoiding overworking the meat.
3. Form Patties:
   Shape the mixture into 4 patties, about 3½ inches wide and ½ inch thick.
4. Wrap with Bacon and Pineapple:
   On parchment paper, lay 2 bacon slices in an “X” pattern. Place a burger patty in the center and top it with a pineapple slice. Wrap bacon ends over the top, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
5. Transfer to Rack:
   Repeat with the remaining patties. Place each on the wire rack.
6. First Bake:
   Bake for 15 minutes. Remove and brush each burger with the remaining BBQ sauce.
7. Final Bake:
   Return to oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and internal temp reaches 160°F.
8. Toast Buns:
   While burgers finish baking, toast the buns if desired.
9. Serve:
   Let burgers rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

Variations:

• Swap in turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add a slice of pepper jack or smoked gouda under the pineapple for extra richness.
• Serve on Hawaiian sweet rolls for a tropical touch.

Tips:

• Use fresh pineapple if possible for the best texture and flavor.
• Blot canned pineapple rings dry to help bacon crisp.
• Brushing with BBQ sauce during the final bake ensures sticky, flavorful caramelization.