12 Grilled Pineapple Recipes That Pair Beautifully With Summer BBQ

12 Grilled Pineapple Recipes That Pair Beautifully With Summer BBQ bring a burst of tropical sweetness and a hint of smoky caramelization that perfectly complement the bold, savory flavors of outdoor grilling. Pineapple on the grill isn’t just a side dish—it’s a showstopper that enhances everything from juicy burgers and tender ribs to veggie skewers and grilled seafood. Its natural sugars caramelize beautifully over open flames, transforming each slice into a golden, flavor-packed treat. Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout, beachside picnic, or casual family gathering, these grilled pineapple recipes will add a fresh, sunny twist to your summer spread.

Each recipe in this collection highlights the incredible versatility of pineapple—think sweet and spicy glazes, zesty marinades, and unexpected flavor combinations that will surprise and delight your taste buds. From tropical salsas to grilled pineapple desserts, these ideas go beyond the basics to help you make the most of barbecue season. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, these dishes are sure to earn a spot on your summer favorites list. So fire up the grill, grab a ripe pineapple, and get ready to transform your BBQ into a tropical flavor fest.

Spicy Grilled Pineapple Skewers

Spicy grilled pineapple skewers bring a fun twist to your summer BBQ. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with a kick of spice, creating a flavor that’s both refreshing and exciting. These skewers are easy to make and will be a hit at any gathering!

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these skewers in no time. They make a great side dish or a unique dessert option. Let’s get started with the simple recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt to taste
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cayenne pepper, honey, and salt.
2. Coat the Pineapple: Add the pineapple chunks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Skewer the Pineapple: Thread the marinated pineapple chunks onto the skewers.
4. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see grill marks and the pineapple is warmed through.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy warm, either as a side or dessert!

Coconut Rum Grilled Pineapple

Coconut Rum Grilled Pineapple is a delightful treat that brings a tropical twist to your summer BBQ. The sweetness of the grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with the rich, smooth flavor of coconut rum, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to dessert for any outdoor gathering.

This recipe is all about balance—grilling caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, enhancing its flavor and adding a beautiful char. The coconut rum adds a hint of warmth and depth, making each bite an explosion of tropical goodness. It’s the perfect way to end a summer meal!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
• 1/4 cup coconut rum
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together coconut rum, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Marinate the Pineapple: Place the pineapple rings in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill each pineapple ring for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see grill marks and the pineapple is caramelized.
4. Serve: Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill, garnish with fresh mint leaves, and enjoy warm!

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

This grilled pineapple salsa is a burst of summer flavors that brings a twist to traditional salsas. The sweetness of the grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with a hint of spice, making it a refreshing addition to any BBQ spread. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sun!

With the right mix of ingredients, this salsa is not only vibrant but also versatile. Serve it with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled meats, or even as a delightful side with fish tacos. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill the diced pineapple for about 2-3 minutes on each side until caramelized and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and let cool.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
3. Season: Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure even distribution.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite grilled dishes!

Honey-Lime Glazed Pineapple

Honey-lime glazed pineapple is a sweet and tangy treat that perfectly complements summer BBQs. The combination of honey and lime enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, creating a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for any backyard gathering.

This recipe is all about simplicity and fresh ingredients. Grilling the pineapple adds a smoky touch, while the glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving each slice a delightful finish. Serve it as a side dish, dessert, or even on top of grilled meats for a refreshing twist!

Ingredients

• 1 whole ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Fresh lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together honey, lime juice, lime zest, and cinnamon if using.
3. Glaze the Pineapple: Brush the glaze generously over both sides of the pineapple rings.
4. Grill the Pineapple: Place the glazed pineapple rings on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple is caramelized.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve warm, garnished with fresh lime wedges. Enjoy!

Chipotle Pineapple BBQ Ribs

These Chipotle Pineapple BBQ Ribs bring a delightful twist to your summer grill parties. The combination of smoky chipotle and sweet pineapple creates a rich, tangy glaze that perfectly complements the tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to impress your guests without requiring hours of kitchen time.

The sweetness of the pineapple balances the heat from the chipotle, providing a delicious contrast that elevates traditional BBQ ribs to something truly special. Whether you’re a grilling novice or an experienced pitmaster, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle while still delivering mouthwatering results.

Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, chipotle, garlic, and ginger.
3. Marinate: Place the ribs in a large resealable bag or a dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Grill the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 3-4 hours, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade.
5. Finish and Serve: Once the ribs are tender and caramelized, remove them from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra marinade on the side.

Pineapple Cilantro Rice Bowl

This Pineapple Cilantro Rice Bowl is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that captures the essence of summer. The juicy grilled pineapple adds a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fresh and zesty cilantro-infused rice. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for any BBQ gathering or as a light meal on its own.

Making this rice bowl is a breeze. Just cook your rice, grill the pineapple, and mix in some cilantro for a refreshing twist. You’ll have a colorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook according to package instructions until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush pineapple slices with olive oil and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
3. Mix the Ingredients: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Bowl: Serve the cilantro rice in bowls, topped with the grilled pineapple slices. Enjoy your refreshing and vibrant dish!

Teriyaki Pineapple Burgers

These Teriyaki Pineapple Burgers are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that bring a taste of the tropics straight to your backyard BBQ. Juicy grilled patties topped with caramelized pineapple and drizzled with zesty teriyaki sauce create a mouthwatering combo that’s simple to whip up.

Perfect for summer gatherings, these burgers are not just tasty but also easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something delicious and different.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 can pineapple rings
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 4 burger buns
• 1 tomato, sliced
• Red onion, sliced
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, mix ground chicken or turkey with half of the teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into four patties.
2. Grill the Patties: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked. During the last few minutes, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt.
3. Grill the Pineapple: While the patties are cooking, grill the pineapple rings for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have grill marks.
4. Assemble the Burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill. Start with the bottom bun, add the patty with cheese, a slice of tomato, grilled pineapple, and red onion. Drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce on top.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with green onions and serve with the top bun. Enjoy your Teriyaki Pineapple Burgers!

Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers

Pineapple and shrimp skewers bring a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors to your summer BBQ. The juicy pineapple complements the succulent shrimp perfectly, creating a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, making them a go-to choice for your next gathering.

This recipe can be customized with your favorite veggies and marinade, allowing for creativity while grilling. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal affair, these skewers are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and let them sit for about 15-30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread shrimp, pineapple chunks, bell pepper squares, and zucchini slices onto the skewers alternately.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy hot!

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Thighs

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Thighs are a delightful combination of sweet and savory that brings summer vibes right to your grill. The juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a tangy pineapple sauce, which helps keep them tender and flavorful while grilling. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a hit at any summer BBQ.

The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ flavor, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. You’ll love how quick it is to whip up, and it’s sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Season with salt and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce and grilled pineapple for an extra treat!

Sweet and Sour Grilled Pineapple

Sweet and sour grilled pineapple is a delightful treat that brings a tropical twist to any summer BBQ. The juicy pineapple slices caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your outdoor gatherings.

The grill enhances the natural sugars of the pineapple, delivering an irresistible smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes or can be enjoyed on its own. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert, or chop it up for a vibrant fruit salsa.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into thick slices
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Pineapple: Place the pineapple slices in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Pineapple: Place the marinated pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is tender.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy warm!

Grilled Pineapple with Mint Yogurt Dip

Grilled pineapple is a delightful summer treat that combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with a subtle smoky flavor. This simple recipe pairs perfectly with a refreshing mint yogurt dip, making it an ideal addition to any summer BBQ. The combination of juicy, caramelized pineapple and cool, creamy mint yogurt creates a balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also adds a tropical twist to your meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can serve a standout side or dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pineapple: Start by cutting the top and bottom off the pineapple. Stand it upright and slice off the skin. Cut the pineapple into thick rings, about 1 inch each.
2. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the pineapple slices with brown sugar. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see grill marks and the fruit is caramelized.
3. Make the Mint Yogurt Dip: In a bowl, mix the yogurt, honey, chopped mint, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Serve: Arrange the grilled pineapple on a plate and serve with the mint yogurt dip on the side for dipping.

Grilled Pineapple Fruit Salad

This Grilled Pineapple Fruit Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer BBQs. The natural sweetness of the grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with a mix of juicy fruits, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also adds a touch of tropical flair to your outdoor gatherings.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. The combination of fresh fruits and the smoky notes from the grilled pineapple makes this salad a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup mango, diced
• 1/2 cup mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
2. Grill the pineapple slices for about 3-4 minutes per side until they have nice grill marks and are slightly caramelized. Remove from the grill and let cool.
3. Once cooled, chop the grilled pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, strawberries, blueberries, mango, and mint leaves.
5. Drizzle with honey and lime juice, tossing gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing treat.

Final thoughts

Grilled pineapple is more than just a tasty addition to your BBQ—it’s a celebration of summer’s vibrant flavors and easygoing spirit. With these 12 creative and crowd-pleasing recipes, you’ll discover just how effortlessly pineapple can elevate your grilling game. Whether served as a side, topping, or sweet finish to your meal, these dishes will bring a splash of sunshine to every bite. Make this summer unforgettable, one grilled pineapple slice at a time.