Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs
Sweet and sour are two delicious tastes that go together so well. The combination of tangy pineapple and tender beef is a popular combo that really hits the spot, making this particular dish a great choice for kids and adults alike! As an extra bonus, it’s an easy recipe only requires a short, budget-friendly list of ingredients with zero chopping and no stove time either – thanks to your trusty slow cooker! It’s hard to believe that something so simple can taste this good, but it’s true… Pineapple is something you can find in the canned section of most any grocery store.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s pretty commonly used in baking, but why not take a savory approach and use it with beef instead of just ham? Pineapple really brings out the rich flavors and makes the sauce taste that much better! Speaking of sauce – any barbecue brand you like will do the trick. It’s all about easy with this meal, so there’s no need to make your own. One bottle will do and in it goes with the sweet juice from the pineapple. Boy, does it make the meatballs burst with flavor! Thankfully, there are so many frozen and refrigerated meatball options (meat and even meatless) available to save you a ton of time.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz.) package frozen meatballs
- 1 (18 oz.) bottle preferred BBQ sauce
- 1 (20 oz.) can pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Reserved pineapple juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour barbecue sauce and pineapple chunks (with juices) over the meatballs.
- Add brown sugar and garlic powder, and stir everything together.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours, or until the meatballs are fully warmed through.
Tips for Success
Make sure to stir the mixture halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heating. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also substitute turkey or vegetarian meatballs to suit your dietary preferences.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 8g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but you may need to add a bit of extra liquid since canned pineapple comes with juice.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and keep it in the refrigerator overnight, then start cooking it in the slow cooker the next day.
Conclusion
Nothing beats a mouthwatering, make-ahead meal that satisfies everyone at the table and can also be served in volume as a party show-stopper. The idea that anyone can enjoy a dish of savory meatballs, chunky bits of pineapple, and amazing sauce – all without the use of a stove or oven – is such a beautiful thing! Isn’t it nice to know that you’re only one slow cooker and five ingredients away from an unforgettable meal?!
Try out this Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs recipe and experience the delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Share your experience in the comments below, and let us know how it turned out!
