The Best Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Hello there, kitchen adventurers! One of my absolute favorite things to whip up, especially when those warmer months roll around, is grilled pineapple. It’s incredibly simple, usually taking me about 30 minutes from start to finish, and it brings such a burst of sunshine to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple
- Speedy Simplicity: This recipe is a weeknight warrior! With minimal prep and quick grilling time, you can have a delicious treat ready in under 30 minutes.
- Sweet & Savory Harmony: The caramelization from grilling brings out a wonderful sweetness that beautifully balances any savory dish.
- Summer Star: It’s the perfect side dish or dessert for BBQs, picnics, or any gathering where you want a taste of summer.
- Unbeatable Versatility: From breakfast to dessert, this grilled pineapple shines, proving it’s a truly adaptable fruit.
Ultimate Grilled Pineapple: Easy, Caramelized Summer Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lay the pineapple spears on a pan. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. Whisk together the butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. (If it seems thick, I always put it in the microwave for a few seconds so that it can easily pour on top of the pineapple.) Spread on top of the pineapple using a cooking brush.
- Grill for about 7-10 minutes on medium heat or until it is starting to turn golden brown. I always like to brush the excess sauce from the pan back on top of the pineapple before serving.
How to Pick the Perfect Pineapple
Choosing a ripe pineapple is key to a delicious outcome! I always look for one that’s plump and has a lovely, sweet aroma at the base – that’s a sure sign it’s ready. The color should be a warm, golden yellow, though some can be green and still perfectly ripe. Give the leaves a gentle tug; if one comes out easily, it’s usually a good indicator of ripeness. Don’t worry if the eyes are a bit large; that’s perfectly normal!
Preparing Your Pineapple for the Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your pineapple ready for the heat is super straightforward. First, you’ll want to chop off the top and bottom of the fruit. Then, stand it upright and carefully slice away the tough outer skin, following the curve of the pineapple. Try to remove as much of the brown, spiky ‘eyes’ as you can.
Once it’s peeled, you can decide how you want to cut it for grilling. Spears are my go-to because they’re easy to handle and get fantastic grill marks. You can also cut it into thick rings, about 1/2 inch thick, for a more classic look. Wedges are another great option, especially if you want to serve larger portions. For spears, simply quarter the pineapple lengthwise, then cut each quarter into 2-3 spears, removing any tough core pieces.
The Best Grilled Pineapple Recipe
This simple recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The sweet, caramelized fruit is irresistible, and it’s amazing how just a few pantry staples can transform fresh pineapple into something truly special. If you’re craving a baked dessert too, our apple cinnamon cake recipe makes a cozy complement.
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple (cut into spears)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/2 cup Butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
Instructions
First, lay your prepared pineapple spears on a baking sheet or directly on your grill prep tray. Sprinkle them lightly with cinnamon. Next, in a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and the remaining cinnamon until it’s well combined. If the mixture seems a bit thick, I always pop it in the microwave for just a few seconds to make it easier to brush on. Using a cooking brush, generously spread this delightful glaze all over the pineapple spears.
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the glazed pineapple onto your preheated grill over medium heat. Grill for about 7-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pineapple is beautifully golden brown and slightly softened. Before serving, I love to brush any of that extra delicious sauce from the pan back over the pineapple.
Grilling Your Pineapple to Perfection
Preheating your grill is the first, crucial step to achieving those coveted grill marks and avoiding sticky situations. Aim for a medium heat, which is typically around 350-400°F (175-200°C). Once the grill is hot, lay your prepared pineapple spears directly on the grates. Resist the urge to move them too soon; let them cook for about 3-5 minutes per side to develop those beautiful char marks.
Remember, fruit cooks relatively quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy. Grilling fruit caramelizes its natural sugars, intensifying the flavor and adding a wonderful depth that raw pineapple just can’t match. If you love caramelized tropical sides, try our fried plantains recipe for another crowd-pleasing option.
Flavor Variations & Creative Glaze Ideas
Want to take your grilled pineapple to the next level? Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Chili-Lime: Whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, a pinch of chili powder (or cayenne for more heat), and the zest and juice of one lime. This adds a zesty kick and a touch of heat that is amazing with the sweet pineapple.
- Coconut Rum Glaze: Blend melted butter with brown sugar, a splash of dark rum, and a teaspoon of shredded coconut. This glaze brings a tropical, slightly boozy sweetness that’s perfect for summer desserts.
- Savory Herb Infusion: Mix melted butter with brown sugar, a hint of smoked paprika, and finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme. This unexpected savory twist is fantastic served alongside grilled pork or chicken.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple: Delicious Pairings
This grilled pineapple is wonderfully versatile! It also pairs beautifully with bold mains like quick harissa chicken for a spicy-sweet combo.
- As a Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s also delightful topped with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts.
- As a Savory Side: It’s a phenomenal accompaniment to grilled meats like pork chops, chicken, or even steak. The sweetness cuts through the richness of the meat beautifully.
- As a Meal Component: Chop it up and add it to fresh salads for a burst of sweetness, skewer it with chicken and vegetables for delicious kebabs, or even blend it into a salsa for tacos.
Alternative “Grilling” Methods
No outdoor grill? No problem! You can achieve a similar delicious char on your grilled pineapple using a few other methods.
- Grill Pan: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat on your stovetop. Brush the pineapple and the pan with a little oil. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing down slightly to ensure good contact and char marks.
- Oven Broiler: Preheat your broiler to high. Arrange the glazed pineapple spears on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for 3-5 minutes, watching very closely, flipping once, until caramelized and slightly browned.
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover grilled pineapple is a treasure! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I find the best method is a quick sauté in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also briefly reheat it in the oven or air fryer to maintain some of that delightful texture.
Troubleshooting Common Grilled Pineapple Issues
- Pineapple is burning too quickly: Your grill might be too hot. Lower the heat to medium, and if it’s still an issue, you can grill for a shorter time per side.
- Pineapple is too tart: This usually means the pineapple wasn’t quite ripe enough. You can try adding a touch more brown sugar to the glaze to help caramelize it better.
- Pineapple is sticking to the grill: Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the pineapple down. Don’t try to flip it too soon; let it release naturally from the grates once it has developed a good char.
Health Benefits of Pineapple
Pineapple isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with beneficial nutrients! It’s a fantastic source of Vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and it contains manganese, important for bone health. Plus, it’s loaded with antioxidants that help fight inflammation. It’s a naturally sweet way to add a dose of health to your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I grill pineapple indoors? Yes, you absolutely can! A grill pan on the stovetop, your oven broiler, or even an air fryer can give you wonderfully caramelized results without an outdoor grill.
- How long does grilled pineapple last? Leftover grilled pineapple will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
- What’s the best way to cut pineapple for grilling? Spears are my favorite for ease of handling and great grill marks, but thick rings or wedges also work beautifully.
- Can I use canned pineapple? While you can grill canned pineapple, I really don’t recommend it for the best flavor and texture. Fresh pineapple caramelizes much better and has a superior taste when grilled.
Conclusion
There you have it – simple, delicious grilled pineapple that’s sure to become a new favorite! It’s proof that a few basic ingredients and a bit of heat can create something truly magical. Whether you’re serving it as a sweet finale or a vibrant side dish, this recipe brings joy to any table. I can’t wait for you to try it and taste that perfect balance of sweet and caramelized goodness. Let me know in the comments how you enjoyed your grilled pineapple, or if you discovered any amazing new serving ideas! Happy cooking!
