Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

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Juicy, sticky, sweet, and savory — these slow cooker pineapple barbecue meatballs are everything you want in a comforting party appetizer or an easy weeknight dinner. Tender meatballs simmer gently in a tangy pineapple-infused barbecue sauce that clings to every bite. It takes minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor.

This dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, prepping for game day, or just looking to level up a Tuesday night meal, these meatballs never fail. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic. Serve them over rice, alongside veggies, or pile them onto toothpicks for an irresistible snack.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs Recipe

It’s a combination of ease and flavor that makes this recipe so lovable. You don’t have to hover over the stove or mess with complicated ingredients. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while the sweet and tangy sauce transforms store-bought meatballs into something truly special. It’s also a flexible recipe — scale it for a party or halve it for a family dinner.

Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?

Absolutely. If you have the time and prefer homemade meatballs, go for it! Just make sure they’re either cooked through before adding to the slow cooker or sturdy enough to hold their shape during the slow cooking process. Homemade adds an extra level of richness and flavor, but frozen works beautifully when time is short.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

When it comes to flavor-packed simplicity, this ingredient list checks all the boxes. Just a handful of components work together to create something crave-worthy.

• Frozen meatballs: The ultimate shortcut. Choose your favorite beef, turkey, or chicken variety.
• Barbecue sauce: The smoky, tangy base that defines this dish. Go bold, spicy, or sweet depending on your taste.
• Crushed pineapple (with juice): Adds fruity sweetness and balances out the barbecue sauce with a tropical twist.
• Brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
• Soy sauce: Adds salty umami flavor that complements both the meatballs and the sauce.
• Garlic powder: Infuses the mix with subtle savory warmth.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Step 1: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine barbecue sauce, crushed pineapple (with juice), brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until well blended. This will be your rich and sticky sauce base.

Step 2: Add Meatballs to Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker. No need to thaw them. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, making sure all the meatballs are coated.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce from sticking and to coat the meatballs evenly. The sauce will thicken and develop more flavor as it cooks.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are tender and the sauce is thick and glossy, they’re ready to serve. Spoon them over rice, serve with toothpicks as an appetizer, or tuck them into hoagie rolls for a hearty sandwich.

How to Serve and Store Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

This recipe yields enough to feed about 6 to 8 people if served as a main dish with rice or a side. As an appetizer, it can stretch to 10 or more. Serve them warm, straight from the slow cooker, or transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions for extra color.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. These also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, making them perfect for meal prep.

What to Serve With Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The light, floral flavor of jasmine rice pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a crispy, slightly bitter contrast that balances the sweetness.

Hawaiian Rolls

Soft, sweet, and perfect for making mini meatball sliders.

Garlic Noodles

Rich, buttery noodles enhance the umami in the sauce.

Pineapple Cucumber Salad

A cool, crunchy side that mirrors the tropical notes.

Baked Mac and Cheese

If you’re serving a crowd, this creamy classic is always a win.

Grilled Veggie Skewers

Colorful and smoky, these round out the meal beautifully.

Cauliflower Fried Rice

For a low-carb option, this adds flavor without the extra starch.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If these sweet and sticky meatballs made you smile, you’ll love trying out a few more reader favorites:

• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a fresh and wholesome spin.
• Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls if you want a crunchy, cheesy bite.
• Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl when you’re craving bold and spicy.
• Classic Caprese Salad Recipe for something light and refreshing.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for cozy comfort with a twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest party board so it’s just a click away when you need something delicious.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try spicy barbecue or add fresh pineapple chunks? Any side dish pairings that became a hit?

Explore beautifully curated slow cooker recipes and more cozy comfort foods on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next kitchen favorite!

Conclusion

Slow cooker pineapple barbecue meatballs are the kind of dish that brings people together. Easy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, this is one of those back-pocket recipes you’ll turn to again and again. It’s proof that with just a few good ingredients and a little patience, your slow cooker can deliver something truly special.

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