Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video) are a delicious and easy dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. These sweet and tangy meatballs made with pineapple, BBQ sauce, and ginger are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive party appetizer. The slow-cooking method ensures the meatballs are tender and bursting with flavor, making them a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory BBQ sauce creates a delightful balance that will please any palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as an appetizer or paired with rice for a main dish, these meatballs fit seamlessly into any meal setting.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for parties or potlucks, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can easily make these meatballs ahead of time or freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs successfully, you’ll need some key tools that streamline the process and ensure optimal results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Microplane Grater
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows you to set it and forget it while your meal cooks gently over several hours, ensuring maximum flavor infusion.
• Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the crock pot.
• Microplane Grater: Using this tool makes grating ginger and garlic quick and easy, allowing for even distribution in your sauce.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the sauce ingredients smoothly, preventing clumps and ensuring each bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 3 pounds frozen meatballs
• 1 20 ounce can pineapple chunks, drained

For the Sauce

• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice apple vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 3 cloves garlic

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped chives

How to Make Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs and Pineapple

In the bowl of your slow cooker, add the frozen meatballs along with the drained pineapple chunks. This forms the base of your dish.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. BBQ sauce
2. Soy sauce
3. Rice apple vinegar
4. Brown sugar

Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even flavor throughout.

Step 3: Add Ginger and Garlic

Using your microplane grater, grate ginger and garlic directly into the sauce mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Everything in the Cooker

Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs in the crock pot. Gently toss everything together to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.

Step 5: Cook

Cover with the lid. Set your slow cooker to HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours until heated through and tender.

Step 6: Serve

Once done cooking, sprinkle chopped chives over the top for garnish before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs!

How to Serve Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a family meal, these tender meatballs will impress everyone at the table.

As a Party Appetizer

• Serve them on toothpicks for easy snacking during gatherings. The sweet and tangy flavors are perfect for mingling guests.

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs over a bed of steamed rice. This combination makes for a hearty meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.

With Vegetables

• Pair the meatballs with roasted or sautéed vegetables. Add colorful bell peppers or broccoli for a nutritious balance to your plate.

On Sliders

• Use slider buns to create mini sandwiches. Top with extra BBQ sauce and garnish with chives for a fun twist.

As Part of a Buffet

• Set up a buffet style serving where guests can help themselves. Provide various sides so they can customize their plates as desired.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

To make the best Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs, follow these tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose Quality Meatballs – Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs made from chicken or turkey for better taste and texture.
• Balance the Sauce – Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or acidity with additional rice apple vinegar if needed.
• Don’t Overcook – Monitor cooking times closely; overcooking can lead to dried-out meatballs.
• Garnish Creatively – Use chopped chives, sesame seeds, or even crushed pineapple as unique garnishes to elevate presentation.
• Add Spice – For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce mixture.
• Serve Warm – Keep the meatballs warm in the crock pot until ready to serve to maintain their tenderness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs enhances the meal experience. Here are some delicious options you might consider.

1. Steamed Rice – A classic choice that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
2. Coleslaw – A fresh and crunchy side that adds texture and balances sweetness.
3. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option that complements the meatballs well while adding a healthful touch.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized provide great contrast.
5. Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up those tasty meatball juices, adding a comforting element to your meal.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries add a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs nicely with BBQ flavors.
7. Green Salad – A simple mixed green salad offers freshness and lightness alongside heartier dishes.
8. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn is an excellent side that adds sweetness and is fun to eat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video) experience. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the thawing step: Using frozen meatballs without thawing can lead to uneven cooking. Always let them thaw for a more even texture.
• Overloading the crock pot: Filling the crock pot too much can result in longer cooking times. Stick to recommended quantities for best results.
• Neglecting to stir occasionally: Failing to stir can cause some meatballs to remain sauceless. Make it a habit to give them a gentle stir halfway through cooking.
• Using low-quality BBQ sauce: Not all barbecue sauces are created equal. Opt for a quality sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess for the best flavor.
• Skipping the garnish: Not adding chives or other garnishes may make your dish look less appealing. A simple garnish enhances presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months; just label with the date.

Reheating Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video) here!

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as fresh meatballs may cook faster than frozen ones.

How spicy are these Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs?

These meatballs have a mild flavor profile. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap out sauces or add different vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

What do I serve with Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video)?

They pair well with rice, noodles, or even on skewers as appetizers at gatherings.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use lean ground turkey instead of traditional meatballs and opt for reduced-sugar BBQ sauce.

Final Thoughts

These Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs (+Video) are not just delicious; they’re versatile! Perfect as an appetizer or main course, you can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give it a try and impress your guests or family with minimal effort!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: About 10 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines sweet and tangy elements for an irresistible meal. Perfect for any occasion, these slow-cooked meatballs are made using tender chicken or beef and complemented by juicy pineapple chunks and a savory BBQ sauce. With minimal prep time required, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. These meatballs make an excellent appetizer for parties or a hearty main dish served over rice. Enjoy the ease of this crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds frozen meatballs (chicken or beef)
• 1 20-ounce can pineapple chunks, drained
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice apple vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Chopped chives for garnish

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Instructions

1. In the bowl of your slow cooker, add frozen meatballs and drained pineapple.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Grate ginger and garlic into the sauce mixture and stir well.
4. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the crock pot and gently toss to coat.
5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours until heated through and tender.
6. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 meatballs (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg