Description

Sweet, tangy, and savory all in one bite, these Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs are a tropical twist on a crowd-pleasing classic. Juicy meatballs are simmered in a pineapple-infused sauce with hints of garlic and ginger, making them the ultimate appetizer or easy weeknight dinner. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let the magic happen—minimal effort, maximum flavor!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs (Homemade or Pre-Made):

1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground chicken
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger or ½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

OR use 1 (32 oz) bag of frozen pre-cooked meatballs for convenience

For the Hawaiian Sauce:

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
½ small onion, chopped (optional)

For Serving:

Steamed white or jasmine rice
Chopped green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs (If Homemade)
In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Form into 1-inch meatballs.
Optional: Brown in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side for extra flavor and texture.

Step 2: Add to Crockpot
Place raw or browned homemade meatballs (or frozen pre-cooked ones) into the crockpot.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple chunks with juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar.
In a separate small bowl, stir together cornstarch and water until smooth, then whisk into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
Add chopped bell peppers and onion (if using).
Stir gently to coat.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until meatballs are hot and sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish
Serve warm over rice or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Use Pineapple Juice – The juice is key to the sweet and tangy sauce.
Add Cornstarch at the Start – It helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Brown First – Browning meatballs adds more flavor but isn’t required.
Adjust Sweetness – Use less sugar if you prefer a more savory version.
Spice It Up – Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours (on low)
Cuisine: American-Island Fusion