These Hawaiian Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic favorite! Made with juicy meatballs and a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, they’re perfect for any gathering.
Who doesn’t love a good meatball, right? I like to serve these with rice or as an appetizer, and they always disappear fast! You can’t go wrong with that sweet and savory combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for ground beef, but using a mix of beef and pork gives extra flavor and tenderness! If you want a leaner option, ground turkey can also work well here.
Bread Crumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. They both work great as substitutes!
Pineapple: Using crushed pineapple is essential for that sweet tang. If you can’t find it, you can use diced pineapple instead, just chop it small! Try adding some sweet chili sauce for a little extra kick if that’s your style.
Soy Sauce: This adds a nice umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. It’s just as tasty!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To make meatballs that are juicy and full of flavor, follow these easy steps:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs!
- Shape them into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. A cookie scoop works great!
- Try to bake, not fry, them for less mess. Baking gives them a great texture without extra grease.
Let them simmer in the sauce for a few minutes after baking. This helps them soak up that delicious pineapple sauce for added flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Hawaiian Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the meatballs don’t stick.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix it all until well combined. It’s important not to overmix to keep your meatballs tender!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small, bite-sized meatballs. You should get about 20-24 meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them out a bit.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The meatballs should be cooked through and nicely browned.
5. Prepare the Pineapple Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a medium saucepan and combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice), brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it’s slightly thickened. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
7. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
When the meatballs are done baking, add them to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently stir to coat them in the sauce and allow them to cook together on low heat for an additional 5 minutes. It helps the meatballs soak up all that tasty flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm, and enjoy these delicious Hawaiian meatballs on rice or as a fun appetizer—everyone will love them!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just note that turkey can be slightly drier, so be careful not to overcook the meatballs.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, you can mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha into the meatball mixture. You can also try adding some chopped jalapeños to the sauce!
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave or on the stove with the sauce.
What Can I Serve with Hawaiian Meatballs?
These meatballs go wonderfully with steamed rice or rice noodles. You can also serve them as appetizers with toothpicks for easy snacking. Pair them with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
