Looking for the ultimate party appetizer or an easy weeknight meal? These Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser every time! They combine the sweetness of pineapple, the tang of barbecue sauce, and a hint of spice for a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, they’re made in a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it while your kitchen fills with the delicious aroma of slow-cooked goodness.

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Why You’ll Love These Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The combination of pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce creates a sweet and tangy glaze that coats each meatball perfectly.
Easy Prep: With frozen meatballs and a handful of pantry ingredients, this recipe comes together in minutes your slow cooker does the rest!
Great for Entertaining: Whether it’s a game-day snack, a potluck, or just a casual family dinner, these meatballs are a hit wherever they go.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 pounds frozen meatballs – Saves you tons of prep time! You can use store-bought or homemade if you have some on hand.
1 cup barbecue sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a personal touch.
1 cup pineapple juice – Adds a tropical sweetness that pairs perfectly with the barbecue sauce.
1/2 cup brown sugar – For that extra layer of sweetness and richness.
1/4 cup soy sauce – Balances out the sweetness with a savory, umami flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a hint of aromatic depth.
1 teaspoon onion powder – For a touch of savory flavor.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Gives a subtle kick of spice.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Add more or less depending on your heat preference.
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained – Adds texture and bursts of sweet, juicy flavor throughout the dish.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – For a fresh, colorful finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1 cup of pineapple juice, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional). This sauce will be the sweet, tangy glaze that makes these meatballs irresistible.

2. Add the Meatballs

Place the 2 pounds of frozen meatballs in your slow cooker. You can use either store-bought frozen meatballs or homemade ones that you’ve previously frozen.

3. Pour the Sauce Over the Meatballs

Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker, making sure they are well-coated. The sauce will thicken and caramelize as it cooks, soaking into the meatballs for maximum flavor.

4. Add Pineapple Chunks

Add the drained pineapple chunks to the slow cooker, gently mixing them with the meatballs and sauce. The pineapple chunks will add a juicy, sweet surprise in every bite.

5. Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are fully heated through and the sauce has thickened. Stir the meatballs occasionally to ensure they’re evenly coated with the delicious sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the meatballs are done, garnish them with fresh parsley for a pop of color (optional), then serve them warm. They’re perfect as an appetizer or served over rice for a more filling meal.

How to Serve Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

These Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are incredibly versatile! Here are some ways to serve them:

As an Appetizer: Stick a toothpick in each meatball for easy, bite-sized party snacks.
Over Rice: For a simple weeknight dinner, serve the meatballs over a bed of steamed white or brown rice.
In a Sub: Stuff the meatballs into a hoagie roll with some melted cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
On a Platter: Serve them up on a platter at your next gathering with extra pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory finger food.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Homemade Meatballs: While frozen meatballs are a time-saver, you can also make your own from scratch if you have a bit more time. Just freeze them ahead of time and use them in this recipe.
Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Why You Should Make These Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dishes, then these Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs are a must-try! They bring together sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in the most delicious way. Whether you’re prepping for a party, potluck, or just a casual dinner, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite!