Sweet and Spicy Grilled Pineapple

by Ericka Sanchez on May 18, 2022 (updated Jun 4, 2025)

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Pineapple: A Sizzling Side for Your Summer Cookout

When it comes to outdoor grilling, savory dishes usually take center stage. But a sweet and spicy twist like these grilled pineapple slices can completely transform your cookout experience. Bursting with tropical flavor, kissed by the grill, and balanced with bold heat from chipotle and pequin peppers, this dish is more than just a side. It’s a showstopper. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled chicken, folding it into tacos al pastor-style, or enjoying it as a bold snack between swims, Sweet and Spicy Grilled Pineapple brings sunshine to every bite.

Related Recipe: Salmon Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Storage Suggestions

Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh and warm off the grill, but leftovers store surprisingly well.

Refrigeration: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated on the grill or in a skillet to bring back that warm, caramelized goodness.
Freezing: While freezing changes the texture slightly, grilled pineapple can be frozen and blended later into smoothies or chopped into salsa. Freeze slices on a parchment-lined tray before transferring to a freezer bag.
Repurpose Leftovers: Chop leftover pineapple into small cubes and toss into grain bowls, serve over grilled shrimp, or even blend into a spicy-sweet vinaigrette.

Ingredient Variations

This recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences, available ingredients, or spice tolerance. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Fruit Substitutes: No pineapple? Try thick slices of mango, peaches, or even watermelon for a similar juicy texture. Stone fruits grill beautifully and offer unique flavor profiles.
Alternative Sweeteners: While dark brown sugar offers a rich molasses-like depth, you can substitute it with honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar for slightly different results.
Change the Heat: Chipotle chili powder gives a smoky, warm heat. You can tone it down with regular chili powder or smoked paprika, or dial it up with cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
Citrus Swap: Lime juice adds a sharp brightness, but lemon juice or even orange juice could work beautifully for a softer, more floral acidity.
Herbal Add-Ons: A sprinkle of fresh mint or cilantro after grilling can add freshness and an herbal contrast to the sweet and spicy flavor.

Tips & Hacks

Get Perfect Grill Marks: Make sure your grill is hot and clean before placing the fruit down. Don’t move the slices too much. Let them sear undisturbed for a few minutes per side.
Dry the Pineapple: Don’t skip the step of patting the slices dry! Removing excess moisture allows the sugar mixture to stick and helps achieve a better sear.
Use Skewers: If your pineapple rings are small or you’re working with wedges, thread them onto skewers to prevent pieces from slipping through the grates.
Make it Dessert: Serve slices over vanilla ice cream or alongside grilled pound cake with a drizzle of cajeta or dulce de leche.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure the slices are thick and packed in juice, not syrup. Pat them very dry before grilling to prevent sticking and burning.

Is this dish very spicy?

Not overly! The chipotle chili powder adds a gentle smokiness and warmth. For more heat, sprinkle with crushed dried pequin peppers or even drizzle with a chili-lime hot sauce.

What’s the best way to cut a pineapple into rings?

After peeling the pineapple, cut it into ½-inch thick slices. Use a small round cutter or knife to remove the tough core from each ring.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can slice and prep the pineapple with the sugar-chili mixture a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Grill just before serving for best texture and flavor.

What can I serve this with?

Grilled pineapple is incredibly versatile. Serve it with BBQ ribs, over grilled tofu, in tropical salads, or even chopped into salsa with red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.

How do I keep the pineapple from sticking to the grill?

Brushing the grill with olive oil helps, as does ensuring the pineapple is dry and your grill is preheated. Let the fruit sear without moving it too soon. It will release more easily once grill marks form.

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Pineapple is the kind of dish that turns heads at a cookout and keeps people coming back for more. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick turn on the grill, you can add a punch of flavor and tropical flair to any summer spread. Whether you serve it as a side dish, topping, or snack, it’s guaranteed to be the unexpected favorite on your menu.

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Pineapple

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Author: Ericka Sanchez
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Give your outdoor cookouts some delicious sweetness with a kick of heat. These pineapple slices can be served with your favorite grilled protein, over rice or enjoyed as is for a mid-day snack.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pineapple, peeled and sliced in 10 rings
3 tablespoons Imperial Sugar Dark Brown Sugar
½ tablespoon chipotle chili powder
¼ cup lime juice
Crushed dried pequin peppers (optional)

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Instructions

Brush grill or grill pan with olive oil. Preheat over medium-high heat.
Place pineapple rings between two paper towels to absorb any extra juice. Pat dry.
Whisk together sugar, chili powder and lime juice in a small bowl. Brush mixture on both sides of pineapple rings.
Place pineapple slices on grill or grill pan. Grill, occasionally brushing chili mixture. Remove from heat when char marks appear. Serve with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of crushed pequin pepper (optional).