Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
- 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (choose your favorite)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice (from the can), brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated. The pineapple juice will add a sweet and tangy flavor to balance the savory meatballs.
- Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the frozen or homemade meatballs into the slow cooker. Pour the barbecue-pineapple sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated. Add the pineapple chunks on top.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. Stir the meatballs occasionally to evenly distribute the sauce and prevent sticking. The meatballs should be tender and thoroughly heated by the end of the cooking time, absorbing the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once cooked, give the meatballs a final stir to ensure they are well-coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more pepper or a splash of soy sauce for extra umami.
- If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to let it thicken. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water if a thicker consistency is desired.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs directly from the slow cooker to keep them warm, or plate them for a more formal presentation.
Serving Suggestions: These Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer at parties or gatherings, accompanied by toothpicks for easy snacking. They also work well as a main course over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables. For a casual meal, you can even serve them in sub rolls for delicious meatball sandwiches.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce the night before. Simply store them in the refrigerator in the slow cooker insert, then start cooking the next day.
- Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Leftovers: These meatballs taste even better the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make them irresistible.
