Description

Sweet, tangy, and savory, these Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish. Juicy meatballs are simmered in a tropical-inspired blend of pineapple and barbecue sauce until tender and bursting with flavor. Perfect for parties, potlucks, game days, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to throw together and always a hit.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs (or use store-bought):

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

For the Sauce:

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve ½ cup juice)
1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Optional for Serving:

Cooked rice or mashed potatoes
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Extra pineapple chunks

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Instructions

Step 1: Make or Use Pre-Cooked Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Mix until just combined, then roll into 1-inch balls.
Optional: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes to brown and set the meatballs before adding to the slow cooker.
Alternatively, use frozen pre-cooked meatballs (about 40 small ones).

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place meatballs in the slow cooker.
Top with pineapple chunks.
Pour the sauce over everything and gently stir to coat.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Stir once or twice during cooking to evenly coat meatballs in the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, or spoon over rice or mashed potatoes for a full meal.
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or extra pineapple chunks for a fresh finish.

Notes

Don’t Overmix the Meat – Gently combine for tender meatballs.
Brown First for Extra Flavor – Baking helps lock in juices and adds depth.
Use Good Barbecue Sauce – Choose one you love for best results.
Adjust Sweetness – Add more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.
Double the Recipe – Great for a party or freezing extras.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
Cuisine: American