Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs are a deliciously sweet and savory dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners or party appetizers. Combining tender meatballs with pineapple and a tangy BBQ sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs frozen meatballs
- 20 oz can pineapple chunks (drained with juice reserved)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon ginger powder
- 2 tablespoons green onions (for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the frozen meatballs, pineapple chunks, and chopped red bell peppers to the slow cooker.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger powder until well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently stir to combine.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Step 5: Before serving, give the meatballs a good stir to coat them evenly with the sauce, then sprinkle with sliced green onions.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a splash of reserved pineapple juice to the sauce mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
- Serve over steamed rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Adjust the level of sweetness by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar to taste.
Storage
Store leftover Hawaiian meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh meatballs can be used. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, and ensure they reach the proper internal temperature of 160°F before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in a large skillet or saucepan, cover, and simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
PrintCrockpot Hawaiian Meatballs Recipe
These Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs offer a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor with tender meatballs slow-cooked in a savory pineapple BBQ sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, this easy recipe combines frozen meatballs with a vibrant sauce made from pineapple, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection for a crowd-pleasing meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on Low or 2-3 hours on High
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meatballs and Vegetables
- 3 lbs frozen meatballs
- 20 oz can pineapple chunks (drained with juice reserved)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
Sauce
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon ginger powder
Topping
- 2 tablespoons green onions (sliced, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Add the frozen meatballs, pineapple chunks, and chopped red bell peppers into the slow cooker, distributing evenly.
- Make Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger powder until well combined.
- Add Sauce to Meatballs: Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs, ensuring all pieces are coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW setting for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. The meatballs should be fully heated through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Finish and Serve: Stir the meatballs and sauce thoroughly to coat evenly. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
Notes
- Using frozen meatballs saves time and ensures consistent texture and flavor.
- The reserved pineapple juice can be added to the sauce for extra sweetness and moisture if desired.
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar according to taste.
- Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or as party appetizers with toothpicks.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the microwave or stovetop.
Keywords: Hawaiian meatballs, crockpot meatballs, slow cooker meatballs, pineapple meatballs, BBQ meatballs, easy party appetizer
