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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs That Wow Every Party

This Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs recipe combines juicy meatballs with a rich pineapple barbecue sauce, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 bag Frozen Meatballs Juiciness and protein; use homestyle, Italian, turkey, or chicken meatballs for varied flavors.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Barbecue Sauce Opt for a smoky or honey variety to perfectly complement the pineapple.
  • 1 can Pineapple Chunks (in juice) Do not drain; the juice enhances the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Feel free to adjust based on desired sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Provides umami flavor and saltiness for balance.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can substitute with fresh minced garlic for a punchier taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Contributes depth and mild sweetness to the sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional; adjust or omit according to your spice tolerance.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Optional; for thickening the sauce if desired.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley or Green Onions Adds a pop of freshness and vibrant color to finish off your dish.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker by spraying the insert with nonstick spray or using a slow cooker liner.
  2. Combine the ingredients by adding the frozen meatballs, pineapple chunks (with juice), barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.
  3. Gently stir the mixture ensuring the meatballs are well coated with the sauce.
  4. Set the slow cooker to low for 4 to 6 hours, or high for 2.5 to 3 hours until heated through and the sauce thickens.
  5. If a thicker sauce is desired, whisk cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions before serving, either as an appetizer or over rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 10gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Using quality ingredients will elevate the flavor. Do not drain pineapple to maintain the right balance of sweetness and tanginess.

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