When it comes to entertaining, there’s nothing quite like Hawaiian BBQ sliders to steal the show. These little bites of joy pack a punch of flavor, blending tender beef with the sweet and tangy elements of Hawaiian cuisine. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply a cozy night in, Hawaiian BBQ beef sliders are sure to make you and your guests feel like you’re lounging on a beach in paradise.
Hawaiian BBQ sliders are more than just a delicious treat, they represent the heart of communal dining. When I first prepared these sliders for a family gathering, the combination of juicy beef, sweet pineapple, and zesty BBQ sauce had everyone going back for seconds. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering a delightful medley of flavors that makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, which is a big win in my book.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (you can swap with turkey for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (for that authentic Hawaiian flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian sweet rolls work perfectly)
- Slices of cheddar cheese (optional for a cheesy touch)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Step 2:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and lower the heat. Stir in the BBQ sauce, crushed pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. The flavors will meld together beautifully.
Step 3:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, cut your slider buns in half and place the bottom halves on a baking sheet.
Step 4:
Spoon the beef mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the buns, then top with slices of cheese if desired. Place the top halves of the buns over the filling.
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted.
Step 6:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and get ready to serve up these delicious Hawaiian BBQ sliders.

Nutritional Information
Each Hawaiian BBQ slider contains approximately 250 calories, 15 grams of protein, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 10 grams of fat. Of course, these numbers can vary based on the ingredients you choose, especially if you opt for leaner meats or lighter BBQ sauces.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe, consider using ground turkey instead of beef, and look for low-sugar BBQ and teriyaki sauces. You can also add more veggies, like bell peppers or shredded carrots, to the meat mixture for an extra nutritional boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Hawaiian BBQ sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the sliders. You can also create a festive atmosphere with tropical-themed party decor, think palm leaves and colorful flowers, for that extra touch of island flair.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is overcooking the beef; you want it juicy and flavorful. Remember to drain excess fat, but also keep some moisture to ensure your sliders aren’t dry. Also, don’t skip the crushed pineapple; it adds a necessary sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
Chef’s Notes
- Pro tip: For an even more tropical flair, try adding some sliced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- If you’re making these Hawaiian BBQ sliders for a crowd, feel free to double the recipe and keep a slow cooker on warm to serve them directly.
- Leftover beef mixture? Use it in tacos or as a topping for a loaded baked potato.
FAQs
- Q1: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely; Prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before assembling your sliders. - Q2: What should I do with leftover sliders?
A2: Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave. - Q3: Can I freeze the beef mixture?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
It’s always a joy to watch friends and family enjoy Hawaiian BBQ sliders just as much as I do. If you’re looking for another recipe that’s packed with flavor, be sure to check out my honey garlic ground beef recipe or give my homemade chicken shawarma recipe a try for more delicious meals. Now, gather your loved ones, dig in, and savor this flavorful feast.
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Hawaiian BBQ Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Description
Bring a tropical twist to your next party with these irresistible Hawaiian BBQ Sliders. Juicy ground beef mixed with sweet pineapple, savory BBQ sauce, and a hint of teriyaki, all stacked on fluffy Hawaiian rolls, these mini sandwiches are the perfect crowd-pleasers for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian sweet rolls preferred)
- Slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles.
- Drain any extra fat, then reduce heat to low. Stir in BBQ sauce, crushed pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms on a baking sheet.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto the bun bottoms. Add cheddar cheese slices if using, then place the tops of the buns on.
- Bake for 10 minutes, until the buns are toasted and cheese is melted.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.
Notes
To spice things up, add sliced jalapeños before baking. Double the recipe for large gatherings and keep warm in a slow cooker. Leftover beef can be reused in tacos or loaded baked potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Hawaiian sliders, BBQ beef sliders, pineapple beef sliders, party food, mini sandwiches