Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly tender, these Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the ultimate party pleaser or weeknight dinner win. Simmered in a zesty pineapple barbecue sauce, these juicy meatballs are packed with flavor and require minimal prep thanks to the slow cooker. Whether served as an appetizer, game day snack, or over rice for a full meal, they’re sure to be a hit!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Set It & Forget It – Let the slow cooker do all the work while you relax.
Sweet & Savory – A perfect balance of juicy pineapple and smoky barbecue sauce.
Great for Entertaining – Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
Kid-Friendly – Tender meatballs in a sweet sauce everyone will love.
Versatile – Serve as appetizers, with toothpicks, or over rice for dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Pineapple Barbecue Sauce:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)

For Garnish & Serving:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Cooked rice or slider buns

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet (optional if pre-baking meatballs)
• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small spoon or scoop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
2. Mix until just combined—do not overwork the mixture.
3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.

Step 2: Brown (Optional Step)

1. For extra flavor and texture, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little oil for 2–3 minutes on each side.
2. Alternatively, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.
3. This step is optional, as the slow cooker will fully cook the meatballs.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Barbecue Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes (if using).
2. Stir in pineapple chunks.

Step 4: Slow Cook

1. Place meatballs in the slow cooker.
2. Pour the pineapple barbecue sauce over the meatballs and gently stir to coat.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and sauce is thickened.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
2. Serve warm as an appetizer or spoon over rice or in slider buns for a delicious meal.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs
Use Lean Meat – Lean ground beef or turkey reduces grease in the slow cooker.
Don’t Skip the Sauce – Pineapple juice makes it sweet and tangy, while barbecue sauce brings the smoky depth.
Double the Batch – These freeze beautifully and are great for meal prep.
Control the Heat – Add chili flakes or sriracha for spice lovers, or leave them out for a milder version.
Make It Easier – Use frozen pre-cooked meatballs and just toss them in the sauce if you’re short on time.

Serving Suggestions
Steamed White or Brown Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
Hawaiian Rolls or Sliders – Turn them into mini sandwiches for parties.
Roasted Veggies – Try with roasted bell peppers, broccoli, or green beans.
Salad – A crisp side salad balances the sweetness of the dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Let cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat in a saucepan until warmed through.
Microwave: Reheat individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
Slow Cooker: Warm on low until heated through for serving at parties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
   Yes! Use fully cooked frozen meatballs and cook in the sauce for 3–4 hours on low.
2. What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?
   Choose a smoky or honey barbecue sauce for a perfect sweet-savory combo.
3. Can I make this ahead?
   Yes! Prepare the meatballs and sauce the night before and refrigerate. Start the slow cooker the next day.
4. Is it spicy?
   Only if you add chili flakes. You can completely control the spice level.
5. Can I make this on the stovetop?
   Yes. Simmer the meatballs and sauce in a large pot over low heat for 30–35 minutes.

Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are everything you want in a comfort-food dish—sweet, tangy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a no-fuss dinner option, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple prep, customizable spice levels, and that irresistible tropical barbecue flavor, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your version! These meatballs are made to impress.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–5 hours (low), 2–3 hours (high)
Cuisine: American – Tropical Fusion

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 590mg

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