Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

 

Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs: Sweet, Savory, and Effortless 🍍🍖

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish that practically cooks itself? These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are the perfect solution. With tender meatballs bathed in a sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce, this recipe is ideal for parties, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

The slow cooker does all the work, letting the flavors meld together while you focus on everything else in your day.

---

🥄 Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 bottle (about 18 oz) barbecue sauce

• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)

---

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:

   • In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

   • Mix until just combined, then shape into 1–2 inch meatballs.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, mix the barbecue sauce and crushed pineapple.

3. Cook in the Slow Cooker:

   • Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the pineapple barbecue sauce over them.

   • Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until meatballs are fully cooked and tender.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks, over rice, or with your favorite side dishes.

---

🌟 Tips for Perfect Meatballs

• For extra tenderness, don’t overmix the meat when forming the meatballs.

• Drain the pineapple to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

• Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch.

• Freeze leftovers in the sauce for an easy future meal.

---

🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless: Toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.

• Flavorful: Sweet pineapple balances the smoky barbecue sauce perfectly.

• Versatile: Great for appetizers, dinner, or even as a sandwich filling.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will reach for seconds.

---

✅ Final Thought

These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are sweet, savory, and irresistibly tender. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re a go-to recipe for any occasion. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a family favorite or party staple.