This post is sponsored by Pepperidge Farm, but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.
Savor Summer: Juicy Grilled Burgers with Refreshing Pineapple Tropical Salsa & Ultimate BBQ Hosting Tips
As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like the sizzle of a grill and the aroma of a delicious summer cookout. This season, elevate your outdoor dining experience with our recipe for incredibly juicy grilled burgers, perfectly complemented by a vibrant and refreshing pineapple tropical salsa. These burgers aren’t just any ordinary patties; they’re thoughtfully marinated with a blend of premium burger seasoning, savory Worcestershire sauce, and kosher salt, ensuring every bite bursts with ultimate flavor. Beyond the recipe, we’ll share our top tips and hacks to help you host an unforgettable summer BBQ that your friends and family will rave about all season long.
With Memorial Day now behind us, summer has officially kicked into full gear. My pool has opened its gates for the season, and I’m eagerly anticipating countless joyful days spent soaking up the sun and creating cherished memories. And what goes hand-in-hand with sunny days? BBQ hosting, of course! There’s an undeniable joy in gathering loved ones, firing up the grill, and putting together a fantastic cookout. It’s more than just food; it’s about community, laughter, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the season.
The Fourth of July, the epitome of summer celebrations, will be here before we know it. To help you prepare for this festive occasion and all your summer gatherings, I’ve put together my ultimate guide to hosting a truly spectacular BBQ. From essential menu planning to secret burger techniques, get ready to become the most sought-after host in your neighborhood!

Hacks to Hosting the Ultimate BBQ
Hosting a great BBQ is all about thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Here are my tried-and-true hacks to ensure your summer cookout is a smashing success:
Plan a Diverse and Delicious Menu: A truly ultimate BBQ offers a spread that caters to all tastes and preferences. Don’t just stick to one main dish! I typically aim for a variety, including succulent grilled burgers, tender grilled chicken, and fall-off-the-bone ribs. For sides, consider classic favorites like creamy potato salad, a fresh garden salad bursting with seasonal vegetables, and a vibrant vegetable tray with a delicious dip. Think about your guests – are there any dietary restrictions? Offering a mix of proteins and plenty of fresh sides ensures everyone finds something they love. Consider adding a grilled corn on the cob, a refreshing pasta salad, or even some grilled halloumi for vegetarian options. The key is abundance and variety!
Offer a Condiment Oasis: The toppings and sauces are just as important as the main dishes. Set up a dedicated “condiment station” with a wide variety of options. Beyond the standard ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise, consider offering both sweet and spicy BBQ sauces, a zesty ranch dip for the veggies, and a couple of different salad dressings. For burgers, think outside the box: sliced pickles, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, red onion rings, and perhaps some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. A diverse selection empowers guests to customize their meals and explore new flavor combinations, making their dining experience even more enjoyable.
Prepare Refreshing Beverages in Bulk: Keep your guests cool and hydrated with large servings of delightful beverages. Instead of individual drinks, prepare big pitchers or dispensers of iced tea (sweet and unsweetened options are always a good idea), a festive fruit punch, or even homemade lemonade. Consider infusing water with cucumber and mint or berries for a healthier, elegant option. Don’t forget a cooler full of ice and perhaps some sparkling waters or sodas. Easy access to drinks means less running around for you and more relaxed enjoyment for everyone.
Choose Your Tableware Wisely: The decision between paper plates and standard dinnerware often comes down to convenience versus elegance. If your priority is a stress-free cleanup, high-quality paper plates and disposable flatware are a lifesaver. They significantly cut down on post-BBQ chores, allowing you more time to socialize and relax. However, for a more formal or eco-conscious gathering, reusable plates and cutlery can elevate the aesthetic and reduce waste. If opting for reusable, ensure you have enough for all guests and a clear system for collection. Whichever you choose, ensure napkins and trash receptacles are easily accessible.
My Secret to Amazing Burgers
A truly great burger isn’t just about the patty; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors. Here are my golden rules for crafting burgers that will leave a lasting impression:
Master the Art of Seasoning: This is arguably the most crucial step. Bland burgers are a definite no-go. I insist on seasoning generously and thoroughly. My go-to blend includes a robust burger seasoning, a hint of smoky BBQ seasoning, a good pinch of kosher salt, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. The Worcestershire adds an incredible depth of umami, while the other seasonings provide a complex flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne for a kick. Mix the seasonings directly into the ground beef, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough. Just enough to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
Toast Those Buns on the Grill: This simple step makes a world of difference! Lightly butter or brush your burger buns with a little olive oil, then place them cut-side down on the grill for just 1-2 minutes. Toasting them not only adds a delightful slight crispness and a beautiful golden-brown color but also allows the buns to absorb some of that irresistible smoky grilled flavor. More importantly, it creates a barrier that prevents the bun from becoming soggy when it meets a juicy burger and its toppings, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
Embrace Creative Toppings: While classic toppings are always welcome, don’t be afraid to get adventurous! Regular burgers, as delicious as they are, can sometimes feel a bit predictable. That’s why I developed this tropical salsa burger recipe – it’s a fantastic way to introduce an exciting burst of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Beyond salsa, consider gourmet cheese varieties, crispy bacon, avocado slices, fried eggs, or even unique sauces like sriracha mayo or a homemade aioli. The possibilities are endless, and adding creative toppings transforms a simple burger into a culinary masterpiece.
Never Overcook Your Burgers: Grilled burgers cook surprisingly fast, especially compared to larger cuts of meat. Overcooking is the quickest way to dry out your patties and lose that coveted juiciness. For most grills, 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat is often sufficient for a medium-done burger. Always keep a close eye on them. If you’re grilling a full spread of meats, I recommend saving the burgers for last to minimize the risk of overcooking while other items finish. You can also use a meat thermometer for precision, aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for well-done, or lower for medium-rare to medium.
For this exceptional recipe, I chose Pepperidge Farm® Hamburger Buns. These buns are absolutely perfect for holding generous, juicy burgers without falling apart. Their sturdy yet soft texture toasts beautifully on the grill, providing that ideal foundation for our delicious creation. A great burger deserves a great bun, and these truly deliver.
What makes Pepperidge Farm® buns even better? They contain no high fructose corn syrup and no artificial flavors. This commitment to quality ingredients means you’re serving something you can feel good about, enhancing the natural flavors of your burger. It’s a huge win for both taste and mindful eating!
I easily found them at my local grocery store. You can click here to quickly locate a list of retailers in your area that stock these fantastic buns. Don’t compromise on your burger experience; choose a bun that truly respects the quality of your ingredients.
Every delicious burger deserves a bun baked with pride and quality! I’ve just shown you how I Respect The Bun® by pairing these superb buns with my flavorful tropical salsa burgers. Now it’s your turn! Visit this link to discover even more exciting grilling recipes and to learn how you can participate in a special promotion to win prizes just by sharing how you Respect The Bun® in your own kitchen or backyard BBQ. Join the movement and elevate your burger game!

Juicy Grilled Burgers with Pineapple Tropical Salsa
By Brandi Crawford
These juicy grilled burgers, crowned with a vibrant tropical salsa, are the ultimate summer cookout recipe. The burgers are deeply flavored with a marinade of burger seasoning, Worcestershire, and kosher salt. This recipe also provides essential tips for hosting your best summer BBQ yet.
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Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 557 kcal
Ingredients
Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon burger seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 Pepperidge Farm® Hamburger Buns
Tropical Salsa
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or thawed frozen is preferred)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ½ finely chopped jalapeño
- ¼ red bell pepper, finely sliced into strips
- Juice of ½ lime
Instructions
Tropical Salsa
- Combine all tropical salsa ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Chill the salsa in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Burgers
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, burger seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just blended, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, about ¾-inch thick. Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from bulging during cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the burger patties directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness, or adjust cooking time according to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperatures (160°F/71°C for well-done).
- While the burgers are finishing, lightly butter or oil the cut sides of the Pepperidge Farm® Hamburger Buns. Place them on the grill for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly toasted and golden brown.
- Assemble your burgers: place a juicy grilled patty on a toasted bun, and generously top with the chilled pineapple tropical salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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