Description
These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the ultimate sweet-and-savory appetizer or easy dinner dish! Juicy homemade meatballs simmer in a sticky, tropical barbecue sauce packed with pineapple flavor and just a touch of heat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a potluck, or need a quick weeknight dinner, this slow cooker recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1½ lbs ground beef (or ground chicken or turkey)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup milk
1 tbsp soy sauce
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley
For the Pineapple Barbecue Sauce:
1½ cups barbecue sauce (choose your favorite variety)
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
1 tsp garlic powder
Optional for Serving:
Chopped green onions
Toasted sesame seeds
Steamed white or brown rice
Hawaiian rolls for sliders
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, milk, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and dried parsley.
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—don’t overmix or the meatballs may become tough.
Form the mixture into 1 to 1½-inch meatballs (about 30 pieces) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the meatballs for 10–12 minutes, just until they begin to brown and hold their shape.
This step enhances flavor and helps them stay intact during slow cooking.
Step 3: Make the Pineapple Barbecue Sauce
In a medium bowl, stir together barbecue sauce, crushed pineapple (with juice), brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and garlic powder.
Mix well until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add to the Slow Cooker
Place the browned meatballs in the slow cooker.
Pour the pineapple barbecue sauce evenly over the top.
Gently stir to coat all the meatballs in the sauce.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
Stir gently halfway through cooking if possible.
Once done, the meatballs will be tender and the sauce thick and sticky.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and color.
Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a full meal.
They’re also amazing in slider buns for a tropical-inspired sandwich!
Notes
Use Fresh Ground Meat – Avoid overly lean meat for juicier results.
Don’t Overmix – Gently combine ingredients to avoid tough meatballs.
Browning Adds Flavor – While optional, it boosts both flavor and texture.
Balance the Sauce – Add more brown sugar for extra sweetness, or a splash of vinegar if you want more tang.
Watch the Cook Time – Avoid overcooking to keep meatballs moist and tender.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
- Cuisine: American