Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Meatballs

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours (on LOW) or 1.5-2 hours (on HIGH)
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Difficulty: Easy
Intensity: Low (minimal hands-on cooking)

Description

These Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Meatballs are the perfect sweet, tangy, and savory appetizer or main dish! Made with tender homemade or frozen meatballs simmered in a delicious pineapple-infused BBQ sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an effortless yet flavorful meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or pork)

• 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

*(Alternatively, use 2 lbs frozen pre-cooked meatballs for a shortcut!)*

For the Pineapple BBQ Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained)

• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp ginger powder (optional)

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

• Sliced green onions

• Sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs (If Making Homemade)

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.

3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs).

4. (Optional) For extra flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side before adding to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple BBQ Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, crushed pineapple (with juice), brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Place meatballs (homemade or frozen) in the Crockpot.

2. Pour the pineapple BBQ sauce over the meatballs, gently stirring to coat.

3. Cover and cook:

   • LOW setting: 3-4 hours

   • HIGH setting: 1.5-2 hours

4. Stir occasionally (if possible) to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Once meatballs are cooked through and sauce has thickened slightly, garnish with cilantro, green onions, or sesame seeds.

2. Serve as:

   • An appetizer with toothpicks

   • A main dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles

   • A sandwich filling in slider buns

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx. 5 meatballs + sauce)

(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Tips & Variations

✅ For a Healthier Version: Use turkey meatballs and a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
✅ Spicier Kick: Add 1 tbsp sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
✅ Pineapple Chunks: If you prefer texture, use diced pineapple instead of crushed.
✅ Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Meatballs recipe is a foolproof, delicious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy pineapple BBQ glaze makes it irresistible, and the slow cooker ensures minimal effort for maximum flavor.

Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out. 😊