These Hawaiian meatballs are a fun mix of sweet and savory flavors! Made with ground meat and dotted with pineapple chunks, they’re coated in a tasty glaze that makes every bite pop!
When I make these, I can’t help but smile, especially when they’re on a skewer for a party. They always disappear fast, so I double the batch—sneaky but worth it! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. If you’re opting for something lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Bread Crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just fine. You can also use crushed crackers or even oats if you’re avoiding gluten!
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple is delicious, but canned pineapple is super convenient. Just make sure to drain it well if you use canned to avoid excess moisture.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or make your own for a personal touch! For a different flavor profile, teriyaki sauce could be a great alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Moist and Flavorful Meatballs?
When making meatballs, mixing the meat too much can lead to a dense texture. Here’s a technique to keep them light and tender:
- Gently mix your ingredients until combined. Use your hands for best results!
- Form meatballs into equal sizes (1 to 1 1/2 inches) to ensure they cook evenly.
Also, don’t forget to bake them until just cooked through. Overcooking can make them dry!
How Do I Make the Perfect Sauce for Meatballs?
The glaze is just as important as the meatballs! Here’s how to achieve that perfect sweet and tangy flavor:
- Combine the sauces in a saucepan and stir well. Let it simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the pineapple just a few minutes before serving so they warm up without losing their shape.
This technique ensures a deliciously sticky coating that your meatballs will soak up beautifully!
How to Make Hawaiian Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ginger, grated or ground
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro or green onion, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the meatballs, 20 minutes baking them, and about 5-10 minutes making the sauce and finishing touches. Perfect for a delightful dinner that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First off, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the meatballs don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined—avoid overmixing as this can lead to tough meatballs. You want them to be tender!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, roll the mixture into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in size. Place the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and have a lovely golden-brown color.
5. Make the Hawaiian Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to whip up the delicious sauce! In a saucepan, mix together the BBQ sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, grated ginger, and optional chili flakes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add Pineapple Chunks:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the pineapple chunks and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through and infuse the flavors.
7. Combine Meatballs with the Sauce:
When the meatballs are ready, carefully add them to the sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are well-coated.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to eat! Serve the Hawaiian meatballs hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for that extra pop of flavor!
Enjoy the sweet and tangy tropical flavors mingling with savory meatballs in this comforting dish! 🌺
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that they can be a bit dryer, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an additional egg for moisture!
How Do I Store Leftover Hawaiian Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals until warmed through, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze the meatballs before baking or after they’ve been cooked. If freezing before baking, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Once frozen, they can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If freezing after cooking, ensure they are cooled completely before storing.
What Can I Serve with Hawaiian Meatballs?
These meatballs are fantastic served over steamed white rice, but you can also pair them with fried rice, quinoa, or even a tropical salad. They also make a great appetizer when served on skewers with toothpicks!
