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Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Ridiculously easy slow cooker appetizer that delivers big on flavor without requiring any fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or parties, transforming simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both sweet and savory.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Course: Appetizer
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • frozen cooked meatballs about 40-50 meatballs
  • crushed pineapple, undrained
  • barbecue sauce your favorite kind!
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Red pepper flakes to taste (for a little heat)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Medium Bowl
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the crushed pineapple (including the juice), barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger. If you like a touch of heat, stir in the red pepper flakes now, adjusting the amount to your preference.
    crushed pineapple, undrained, barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, Red pepper flakes
  2. Place the frozen cooked meatballs directly into your slow cooker. There's no need to thaw them beforehand.
    frozen cooked meatballs
  3. Pour the prepared pineapple barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Ensure all the meatballs are well-coated to absorb all the delicious flavors.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 2 to 3 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened beautifully and is bubbling. The low and slow cooking method ensures the meatballs remain tender and flavorful.
  5. Once cooked, give the meatballs and sauce a good stir. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. You might want to add a little more brown sugar for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or red pepper flakes for heat.
    1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, Red pepper flakes
  6. Serve the Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs hot directly from the slow cooker. They are perfect for a party, game day, or as a simple appetizer. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
    Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in a slow cooker on warm, a saucepan over low heat, or in a low oven.