Description

Sweet, smoky, and irresistibly tender, these Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or easy weeknight dinner. Juicy meatballs are simmered in a tropical-inspired pineapple BBQ sauce until glazed to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or prepping a stress-free meal, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

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

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs (or use frozen pre-cooked):

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve ½ cup juice)
1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional for Serving:

Cooked white or brown rice
Green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently just until combined—do not overwork.
Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a plate or baking sheet.
(Optional) Pre-bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes for a firmer texture and extra flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Add the meatballs to the bottom of your slow cooker.
Top with pineapple chunks.
Pour the sauce evenly over everything.
Gently stir to coat the meatballs and pineapple.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Stir once halfway through cooking to ensure even coating.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Serve hot as an appetizer with toothpicks, or spoon over rice for a full meal.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Use Pre-Cooked Meatballs – For a faster prep, use your favorite frozen meatballs.
Brown First – Adds a deeper flavor and helps meatballs hold their shape.
Use Good-Quality Barbecue Sauce – It’s the base of the flavor, so pick one you love.
Adjust Sweetness – Add more or less brown sugar to your preference.
Make It Spicy – Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
Cuisine: American