Transform your next gathering into a tropical escape with these irresistibly tangy and sweet "Make It a Luau Meatballs" made in the crock pot! This crowd-pleasing recipe combines tender, juicy frozen meatballs with a luscious pineapple-infused barbecue sauce thatβs packed with bold flavors like soy, ginger, and garlic. As the slow cooker works its magic, the sauce thickens into a vibrant glaze that clings to every bite, creating a savory-sweet fusion reminiscent of a Hawaiian luau feast. With just 10 minutes of prep and a hands-off cooking process, this dish is perfect for busy hosts or weeknight dinners. Serve these flavorful meatballs as a party appetizer with toothpicks or over fluffy steamed rice for a complete meal. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this recipe will bring a taste of the tropics right to your table!
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and grated ginger until fully combined.
Drain the juice from the canned pineapple into the sauce mixture. Stir well to incorporate the pineapple juice into the sauce.
Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker. Spread them out evenly to create a single layer for uniform cooking.
Add the pineapple chunks over the top of the meatballs.
Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs and pineapple, ensuring everything is coated in the sauce.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 4 hours, or on high for 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce warms evenly.
Once the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, they are ready to serve.
Optional: Chop green onions and sprinkle them over the meatballs for a fresh garnish. Add sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over steamed white rice for a delicious meal.
Calories |
3709 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 199.9 g | 256% | |
| Saturated Fat | 75.5 g | 378% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 534 mg | 178% | |
| Sodium | 12645 mg | 550% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 351.1 g | 128% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.3 g | 80% | |
| Total Sugars | 240.3 g | ||
| Protein | 139.1 g | 278% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 773 mg | 59% | |
| Iron | 25.5 mg | 142% | |
| Potassium | 4018 mg | 85% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.