Description

Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly saucy, these Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs are a set-it-and-forget-it favorite that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner. Made with juicy meatballs simmered in a tropical pineapple glaze, this dish delivers big island flavor with minimal effort—your slow cooker does all the work!

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (beef or chicken)
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite brand)
½ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp ground ginger
1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional)
1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

Optional Garnish & Serving Ideas:

Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Steamed white or jasmine rice
Hawaiian rolls for sliders

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Add frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
Pour in pineapple chunks and juice, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly.
Add chopped bell peppers if using for extra flavor and color.

Step 2: Cook on Low or High
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker glaze:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to make a slurry.
Stir into the sauce during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. Let simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Serve hot over steamed rice, as sliders in Hawaiian rolls, or with toothpicks as an appetizer.

Notes

Use Fully Cooked Meatballs – Frozen or homemade, just make sure they’re pre-cooked.
Don’t Skip the Pineapple Juice – It’s essential for that sweet, tangy sauce.
Add Veggies – Bell peppers, carrots, or even snow peas can cook right in with the meatballs.
Double for a Crowd – Easily scale up for parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead – Assemble ingredients in a freezer bag and freeze. Thaw overnight and dump into the crockpot when ready.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
Cuisine: American–Hawaiian Fusion