After using grilled pineapple in a few recipes here, I realized that it deserves its own post. What a surprising taste! You have to try it.
Don’t get me wrong. Mother nature’s fresh pineapple,with its sweet-but-tart taste, is a taste miracle, so to speak. If paradise had a taste, for sure, it would be pineapple. But grilling the fruit transforms it. At first you might be skeptical, but give it a try. It’s heavenly!

Why You'll Love This Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Pineapple is so sweet – the juice is irresistible! When those slices or spears come in contact with the hot grill, the sugars in the juice caramelize. It produces a sweetness with more depth than raw pineapple delivers on its own. Give it a try, you won’t believe the difference!
This makes a perfect sweet summer side dish to accompany all your grilling favorites! Chicken on a stick anyone? Grilled pork tenderloin? Chicken legs on the grill? It all works!
And for a sweet and creamy no-bake dessert, all pineapple lovers should check out GingerCasa's chocolate covered pineapple dessert. Perfect for summer cookouts!
How to grill pineapple
Grilling pineapple is pretty darn simple. No marinade, no special prep involved. If starting with canned pineapple slices, here are the steps:
- Drain pineapple slices
- Place directly on hot grill
- Cook each side 3-4 minutes with grill closed
Pineapple on the Grill Variations
Can I grill fresh pineapple?
Even better! The only additional prep is peeling and slicing the pineapple. I prefer long spears of pineapple instead of circles. So cut the fresh pineapple lengthwise. If you can buy fresh pineapple peeled and cored it obviously saves a lot of time.
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The ultimate convenience is finding pineapple already cut into spears. #score
The grilling process is the same – about 3 to 4 minutes each side, until the grill marks appear.
How to Store Pineapple on the Grill
Let the grilled pineapple cool completely before storing. Place the slices in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, lay the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Frozen grilled pineapple will keep for about 2 to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, or enjoy cold straight from the fridge—they’re delicious either way!
📖 Recipe
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Pineapple on the Grill
Ingredients
- 1 can pineapple slices in juice, drained
- or 1 Fresh pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into spears
Instructions
- Place pineapple slices or spears directly on hot grill grates (oil grates lightly if they are dry). Close grill and cook 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
- Enjoy with any other grilled food.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
FAQ/Additional Information
I feel that pineapple alone is enough. The grilled taste is incredible. However, I know that some like to enhance that sweet flavor. For you, here are a few ideas:
- Honey, melted butter and a dash of hot sauce
- Melted butter, brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon
- Brown sugar and lime juice
- Brown sugar and sea salt
The best way to emulate an outdoor grill is with a cast iron pan. Heat the pan to a medium-high temperature and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Then, heat for 3-4 minutes per side, just as you would for a charcoal grill. Keep a close eye on the pineapple to prevent burning.
Now that you are hooked on pineapple, here are a few more grilled side dishes to try:
- Grilled beets
- Grilled zucchini
- Asparagus - also grilled!
Alexandra
So many delicious uses for this lovely grilled pineapple!
Delicious with savoury or sweet.
Sula
I agree! I find it impossible to resist!
Nicole
I love pineapple but never thought to grill it! I’ll have to give it a try this summer
Sula
It's easy and delicious - can't beat that!
Charlene
I had heard of grilled watermelon but never thought of pineapple. Going to try this weekend!
Sula
You will love it!
Corinne
Great idea! I love pineapple, why haven't I thought of this!? Thanks for sharing 😀
Sula
Its so easy and good!
Big Trouble
This sounds so tasty! And thank you for the marinade suggestions--those all sound different and delightful! Can't wait to try!~
Sula
I know you will love this - it's so good!