Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly savory, these Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or easy weeknight dinner. Juicy meatballs are simmered in a tropical-inspired BBQ sauce made with pineapple chunks, tangy barbecue sauce, and a hint of spice. With minimal prep and big flavor, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for parties, game day, or a fuss-free family meal.

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

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless – Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
Sweet & Savory – The pineapple BBQ combo delivers bold, addictive flavor.
Party-Perfect – Great for serving at gatherings or potlucks.
Versatile – Serve as an appetizer or over rice for a hearty dinner.
Kid-Friendly – Sweet, saucy, and fun to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley

For the Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Optional for Garnish & Serving:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Steamed white rice or noodles
• Pineapple slices or fresh parsley

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Slow cooker (4-quart or larger)
• Baking sheet (if pre-baking meatballs)
• Small cookie scoop or spoon
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, onion powder, and parsley.
Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
Roll into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a scoop.

Optional: For better texture, brown meatballs in a skillet or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes before adding to the slow cooker. This helps them stay firm.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks with juice, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Place the meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour the pineapple BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re mostly covered.
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Serve & Garnish
Stir gently before serving.
Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and color.
Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice or noodles for a full meal.

Tips for the Best Pineapple BBQ Meatballs
Use Lean Meat – Helps prevent excess grease in the sauce.
Pre-Brown for Structure – Optional, but gives better texture and flavor.
Don’t Skip the Juice – Pineapple juice adds sweetness and tang to the sauce.
Make Ahead – Prep meatballs the night before and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Double the Batch – Great for freezing or feeding a crowd.

Serving Suggestions
Appetizer – Keep warm in the slow cooker at parties.
Dinner Bowl – Serve over jasmine rice or noodles with steamed broccoli.
Slider Style – Tuck into mini buns with a little slaw for party sliders.
Tropical Platter – Pair with coconut rice and grilled veggies for island-inspired flair.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooled meatballs and sauce in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Simmer over low heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 60-second intervals, stirring often.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! Use 1 ½ to 2 lbs frozen, fully cooked meatballs. Add directly to the slow cooker with the sauce and cook for 3–4 hours on low.

2. Can I use fresh pineapple?
You can, but be sure to add ½ cup pineapple juice or water to replace the canned juice for moisture and flavor.

3. Is it very sweet?
It’s sweet and tangy—well balanced! Reduce honey or use a smoky BBQ sauce if you want less sweetness.

4. What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Any kind works! Try hickory for smoky, honey BBQ for sweet, or spicy for a bold twist.

5. Can I bake these instead of slow cooking?
Yes. Bake meatballs in a baking dish with the sauce at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.

Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are everything you want in a recipe—sweet, tangy, savory, and effortless. Whether you’re hosting game night, need a new meal prep favorite, or just want a tropical escape for dinner, this dish delivers every time.

Try them out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag your version online.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours (low)
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 16g | Sodium: 570mg

Print