01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place an oven-safe wire rack over it. Set aside.
02 -
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix without overworking to maintain tenderness.
03 -
Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions, shaping each into a 3½-inch diameter patty approximately ½ inch thick, weighing about 4 ounces each.
04 -
On a parchment-lined tray, arrange two bacon slices in a criss-cross pattern. Place a patty on top, followed by a pineapple slice. Fold bacon strips around to enclose the patty and pineapple. Secure with a toothpick through the bacon cross.
05 -
Transfer the wrapped patties to the prepared wire rack on the baking sheet. Repeat until all four are assembled.
06 -
Bake for 15 minutes. Remove tray and brush remaining 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce over bacon. Return to oven.
07 -
Continue baking 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F for well-done. For medium or medium-well, reduce cooking time by 5-6 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
08 -
Toast burger buns if desired while patties finish cooking.
09 -
Remove patties from oven and rest 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful result.
10 -
Place patties onto buns. Optional additions include leaf lettuce or preferred condiments before serving.