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Slow Cooker Pineapple Brown Sugar Meatballs Recipe


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4 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

These Slow Cooker Pineapple Brown Sugar Meatballs are a deliciously sweet and tangy appetizer or main dish perfect for any occasion. Tender beef meatballs are simmered in a luscious sauce made from pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, and a hint of spice, then slow-cooked with colorful bell peppers and pineapple chunks for a flavor-packed dish that’s effortless to prepare.


Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1½ cup pineapple juice
  • 1½ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1½ cups ketchup
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • -¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs precooked or browned beef meatballs (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 medium bell peppers (cut into ½ inch pieces)
  • 1½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
  • Sliced green onion or parsley for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, corn starch, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes until smooth and well combined.
  2. Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Place the meatballs, chopped bell peppers, and pineapple chunks into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker vessel.
  3. Add sauce and mix: Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs, peppers, and pineapple. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated and mixed together.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 3 to 4 hours, or until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are heated through and flavorful.
  5. Serve and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve the meatballs hot, garnished with sliced green onions or parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  • You can use fresh or frozen meatballs; just make sure they are precooked or browned before adding to the slow cooker.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your palate.
  • For a thicker sauce, you can cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
  • This recipe is great for parties, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American