Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or dinner idea? These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the perfect solution! Sweet and tangy with a hint of savory barbecue flavor, these meatballs are a breeze to make. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s great for potlucks, game days, or even as a main course served over rice. The combination of pineapple and barbecue sauce adds a tropical twist to classic meatballs, making them irresistible.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (reserved from the can or fresh)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray for easier cleanup, or use a slow cooker liner.
Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. This will be the sweet and savory sauce that coats the meatballs.
Step 3: Add Meatballs and Pineapple
Place the meatballs and pineapple chunks in the slow cooker. Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, give everything a good stir to make sure the meatballs are well coated in the sauce. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve the meatballs warm as an appetizer or over rice for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Barbecue Sauce Options: Feel free to use any barbecue sauce you prefer, whether it’s classic, spicy, or smoky. You can also try a honey barbecue or chipotle-flavored sauce for a different taste.
- Meatball Types: You can use frozen meatballs to save time, or make your own using ground beef, pork, turkey, or chicken. Just be sure to cook homemade meatballs first before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Pineapple Alternatives: If you don’t have pineapple chunks, you can use pineapple tidbits or even crushed pineapple to get the same sweet, tropical flavor.
Variations
1. Spicy Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs
For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes, or stir in 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha or hot sauce into the barbecue sauce mixture.
2. Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs
Swap the barbecue sauce for teriyaki sauce and add sesame seeds and green onions for a more Asian-inspired flavor.
3. Pineapple Jalapeño Meatballs
Add sliced fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños for a spicy-sweet kick. The combination of tangy barbecue, sweet pineapple, and heat from the jalapeños is sure to impress.
4. Vegetarian Option
Use plant-based meatballs in place of traditional meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version of this recipe.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
To make a keto-friendly version of these meatballs, use sugar-free barbecue sauce and omit the brown sugar. You can also substitute the pineapple chunks with diced bell peppers or zucchini to keep the carbs lower while still adding a bit of sweetness and texture. Additionally, be sure to use low-carb homemade meatballs or store-bought keto-friendly meatballs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare these meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stove when ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, on the stovetop, or back in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs with the sauce. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: What sides go well with these meatballs?
Serve these meatballs over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. You can also pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even as a filling for sliders or sandwiches.
These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual family dinner, or looking for a simple appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have more time to enjoy the party while your slow cooker does the work. Try this recipe today and enjoy the tropical twist on classic barbecue meatballs!
