Sweet and savory this recipe takes just 3 ingredients to make. Try out this slow cooker 3 ingredient Hawaiian meatballs for a party appetizer or even weeknight dinner. Tender and juicy meatballs smothered in a BBQ sauce and pineapple mixture. The best part of all you can use frozen meatballs for a super easy last-minute party appetizer.
Serve these Hawaiian meatballs on toothpicks for party food, or serve over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a super simple weeknight dinner. Either way, these sweet and savory meatballs are a must-make.
Try these spicy meatballs for a recipe if you like a bit of heat. Another option is this chicken meatball recipe or even these simple Dr. Pepper meatballs.
What Are Hawaiian Meatballs?
Hawaiian meatballs are a mix of pineapple and a savory barbecue sauce paired with meatballs. You will find this recipe uses pre-made frozen meatballs to speed up the prep.
But typically any type of meatball from beef, pork, chicken, or even turkey meatballs can be used. It will give a Hawaiian flavor to the meatballs. Sweet and savory flavors all in one.
Reasons People Love Hawaiian Meatballs
- Versatile in the type of ways to serve up this recipe. Serve over a bed of rice for a full-on meal, or use a toothpick for sticking in and serving as an appetizer.
- It takes just 3 ingredients to make these sweet meatballs. It takes minutes to throw together.
- Toss the meatballs in the slow cooker and let it slow cook all day as you tackle other things in the day.
- A kid-friendly recipe that is fantastic for all ages. You can adjust the flavor with the type of sauce used.
- Customize the meatballs with add-on ingredients that fit your flavor preferences.
Ingredients Needed
Meatballs – Any type of meatballs work for this recipe. I used frozen meatballs I purchased at the store. I find that shopping for pre-made meatballs allows for an easy prep.
BBQ Sauce – Any flavor or style of BBQ sauce works for this recipe. KC, hickory, or even a spicier sauce would work great.
Canned Pineapple Chunks – Tidbits or chunks work great for adding to the recipe. This is the Hawaiian twist to the meatballs for this recipe.
Variations to Recipe
- Use little smokies, sliced Kielbasa, or other smoked sausages in exchange for meatballs.
- Swap the regular meatballs with a plant-based meatball for a meatless option.
- Add in some diced bell peppers for added savory to the sweet.
- Top with some peanuts or even macadamia nuts.
- Stir in some creamy coconut milk at the end for a smoother and creamier consistency.
- Add in some diced mango or even papaya for added flavor.
- Use stuffed meatballs for a cheesy twist.
- Top with green onions, cilantro, or even basil for another layer of flavor.
- Stir in some fish sauce, soy sauce, or even rice vinegar for an Asian flavor.
What to Serve With Hawaiian Meatballs
These meatballs can be served with white rice, fried rice, mashed potatoes, or even your favorite vegetable side dishes. Or grab toothpicks or skewers and serve up these meatballs as a finger food.
Now if you are serving it up as a party food consider pairing it with a few more appetizers to create a variety of options. Try this pizza slider recipe. Or even whip up this taco pinwheels option or Italian Antipasto squares.
Storing Meatballs
Refrigerate – Refrigerate any of the meatballs and sauce you do not eat right away. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Then reheat in the microwave, stovetop, or slow cooker.
Freeze – Go ahead and freeze any of the meatballs that you won’t eat right away. Just place it in a freezer bag or freezer container. Freeze for 3-4 months. Then thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat straight from frozen.
Tips for Making
Crockpot Liner
If you didn’t know you can buy a plastic liner that you can use and throw away after using. It makes it easy to clean up the mess and not get stuck on food on your actual slow cooker. You can buy liners that are BPA-free, so check your stores or shop online.
Mix Well
Once you add the meatballs and the sauce and pineapple give the mixture a good stir. This is going to ensure you get all the flavors in each bite of the meatballs. That way you taste the sweet from the pineapple and the savory from the bbq sauce.
Any Sauce Works
Any BBQ sauce works for this recipe. So make sure to reach for a sauce that you all enjoy, as it is a stand-out flavor. I like to buy BBQ sauce that is one sale, to help stretch the dollar a bit more.
Meatballs
You can use any type of meatballs you would like. If you want even consider making your own meatballs for this recipe. Just whip them up and then have them in the freezer or sear them in a pan and then add to the slow cooker to cook. They at least need to be seared so that the meatballs hold shape as they cook.
FAQs
Do I need to brown the meatballs before placing them in the slow cooker?
For this recipe, I tossed the frozen meatballs right into the slow cooker. Now, if you want added flavor then go ahead and brown the meatballs before you place them in the slow cooker.
How long do I cook BBQ pineapple meatballs in the slow cooker?
You want the meatballs to cook for 2-4 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low. The longer the meatballs cook the richer the flavors will pair together.
Can I overcook meatballs in the slow cooker?
Like all food, yes the meatballs can overcook. You want to make sure to not cook too hot for too long or it can result in burned sauce and dry and tough meatballs. Follow the recipe for the proper cooking time.
More Meatball Recipes
Hawaiian Meatballs
Ingredients
- 40 frozen meatballs
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce
- 20 oz Pineapple chunks and juice in the can
Instructions
- Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
- Then pour on the bbq sauce and pineapple chunks. Use a spoon to mix well to combine.
- Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low 4-5 hours. Serve warm with a white rice or dish up as an appetizer for guests.
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