Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs
These slow cooker pineapple barbecue meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory. Tender meatballs simmer in a fruity BBQ sauce infused with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a touch of soy sauce for depth. The added pineapple chunks give this dish a bright tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is mostly dissolved. This creates a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce that will coat the meatballs beautifully.
2. Fill the Slow Cooker
Place the frozen meatballs directly into the bottom of your slow cooker—no need to thaw them.
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the top, making sure the meatballs are well coated.
Add the drained pineapple chunks, spreading them around so they cook evenly with the meatballs.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
During cooking, stir gently once or twice to ensure every meatball gets coated in the sauce and the pineapple distributes evenly.
4. Finish and Serve
Once the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, turn off the slow cooker.
Stir gently, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like a pop of color.
Serve straight from the slow cooker to keep them warm—perfect for gatherings!
Pro Tips
- Want the sauce thicker? Simmer a cup of the sauce on the stovetop for 5 minutes, then pour back in.
- For extra flavor, use smoked BBQ sauce or add a splash of Worcestershire.
- These meatballs pair great with rice, mashed potatoes, or inside slider buns.
