These sweet and tangy meatballs are the ultimate party appetizer or easy weeknight dinner! Juicy meatballs simmered in a tropical pineapple barbecue sauce—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 (18 oz) bottle barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the can or separate)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds
Directions:
- Prepare the sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder. - Add to slow cooker:
Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over them, then add the pineapple chunks. - Cook:
- Low: 4–5 hours
- High: 2–3 hours
Stir occasionally if you can, but it’s fine to let them simmer.
- Serve:
Serve hot as an appetizer with toothpicks, or over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles for a full meal.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Calories and Servings:
Serves 6–8
Approximately 350–400 calories per serving
Tip: Want to make it homemade? Use your favorite meatball recipe instead of frozen ones—just brown them first before adding to the slow cooker!