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
- ⅛-¼ 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
- 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.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Place the meatballs, chopped bell peppers, and pineapple chunks into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker vessel.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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