Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Looking for a sweet and tangy twist on classic meatballs? These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are a game-changer! Juicy beef meatballs are simmered in a sticky pineapple barbecue sauce that’s bursting with tropical flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, party snack, or over rice for a complete meal, this recipe is incredibly easy and always a crowd-pleaser.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Prep – Let the slow cooker do all the work for tender, flavorful meatballs.
Sweet & Tangy Flavor – Pineapple and barbecue sauce create an irresistible combo.
Perfect for Parties – A guaranteed hit at potlucks, game nights, and holidays.
Versatile Serving Options – Great as an appetizer or main dish with rice or noodles.
Kid-Friendly – The deliciously sticky glaze makes these meatballs a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Pineapple Barbecue Sauce:

• 1½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (with juice)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a mild kick)

For Garnish & Serving:

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Sliced green onions
• Cooked white rice, brown rice, or noodles
• Pineapple slices (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (optional for pre-baking)
• Slow cooker (4-6 quart capacity)
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until everything is well incorporated. Don’t overmix to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Scoop out about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls.
Place them on a plate or tray. You should get about 20-24 small meatballs.

Step 3: Optional – Brown the Meatballs
For extra flavor and to help them hold their shape, you can lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet or bake them at 400°F for 10 minutes.
This step is optional but recommended for firmer meatballs.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks (with juice), soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and chili flakes.
Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess as needed.

Step 5: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Pour the pineapple barbecue sauce evenly over the top.
Gently stir to coat all the meatballs in sauce.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
Stir once or twice during cooking to ensure even coating.
The sauce will thicken and become glossy as it cooks.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce is thick and sticky, turn off the slow cooker.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions for freshness.
Serve over rice or noodles, or place on a platter with toothpicks for a delicious appetizer.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and onion add much more flavor than powdered alternatives.
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to avoid dense meatballs.
Adjust Sauce to Taste – Add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for extra tang.
Make Ahead – You can prep the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Freeze for Later – Freeze uncooked meatballs or leftover cooked ones for a quick future meal.

Serving Suggestions
Serve Over Rice – White or brown rice soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
Try with Noodles – Egg noodles or ramen are a fun twist.
Make a Sandwich – Serve meatballs in a hoagie roll with extra sauce for a Hawaiian-inspired sub.
Add Veggies – Steamed broccoli or stir-fried bell peppers complement the flavors beautifully.
Party Appetizer – Use a toothpick and pineapple chunk for a bite-sized treat.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Let the meatballs cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid cold spots.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat on LOW until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
   Yes! Pre-cooked frozen meatballs work great. Just add them directly to the slow cooker with the sauce and cook as directed.
2. What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?
   Use your favorite brand—sweet, smoky, or spicy. A honey barbecue sauce pairs wonderfully with the pineapple.
3. Can I make it spicier?
   Absolutely. Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your barbecue sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free.
5. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken works just as well. You may want to add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs for moisture.

Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are everything you need for a hassle-free, flavorful dish that delights everyone at the table. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs, creating a tropical taste sensation that’s both comforting and fun.

Whether you’re planning a party, prepping for a busy weeknight, or simply craving something new, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Give it a try and let me know how it turned out. I’d love to hear your twist on it!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours (slow cooker on low)
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 350 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 560mg

Print