Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Description

These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are a delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy family dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and full of flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs (beef, pork, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

1. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once heated through and the sauce is thickened slightly, the meatballs are ready to serve.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks.
• Pair with rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a balanced plate.

Tips:

• For homemade meatballs, prepare and cook them beforehand, then follow the same instructions.
• Adjust the sweetness by reducing or omitting the brown sugar.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Total Time:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 2–6 hours

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 640mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 28g
• Protein: 12g

These Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering!