These BBQ Pineapple Meatballs are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Made with tender frozen meatballs simmered in rich barbecue sauce, juicy pineapple chunks, and brown sugar, this recipe is incredibly easy and irresistibly delicious. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, party snack, or main dish, these meatballs are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy cooks needing a dump-and-go recipe
- Party hosts looking for an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer
- Families who love sweet and savory comfort food
- Beginners who want a foolproof dish
- Anyone who enjoys BBQ-flavored recipes
Why It’s Great
- ✅ Uses frozen meatballs — no prep needed
- ✅ Ready with minimal effort
- ✅ Perfect for parties, potlucks, and game day
- ✅ Sweet and tangy flavor everyone loves
- ✅ Works in slow cooker, stovetop, or oven
Ingredients
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen meatballs
- 1 bottle (18 oz) BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (juice reserved)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pineapple juice from the can
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and the reserved pineapple juice until smooth.
Step 2: Add Meatballs and Pineapple
Place frozen meatballs in a slow cooker or large saucepan. Add pineapple chunks and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Stir gently to coat.
Step 3: Cook
- Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
- Stovetop: Simmer over low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Step 4: Serve
Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a complete meal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker, saucepan, or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, microwave, or slow cooker until heated through.
FAQ
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes, fully cooked homemade meatballs work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat before serving.
What BBQ sauce is best?
A classic or honey BBQ sauce works best, but spicy BBQ adds a nice kick.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar or use BBQ sauce with less sugar.
Conclusion
These Sweet & Tangy BBQ Pineapple Meatballs are an easy, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you get a delicious dish that everyone will love. Add this recipe to your party menu — it’s always a hit!
🍍 Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and zero stress cooking!
