Polynesian Meatballs

Total Time

Prep: 30 min. Cook: 15 min.

Makes

6 dozen

Updated: May. 25, 2022
With pretty bits of pineapple, these meatballs are sure to attract attention—and the sweet-tart sauce brings people back for seconds. —Carol Wakley, North East, Pennsylvania
Polynesian Meatballs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1 can (5 ounces) evaporated milk
  • 1/3 cup chopped onion
  • 2/3 cup crushed saltines
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef
  • SAUCE:
  • 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple tidbits
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

Directions

  1. In a bowl, combine the milk, onion, saltines and seasoned salt. Crumble beef over mixture and mix lightly but thoroughly. With wet hands, shape into 1-in. balls. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown meatballs in small batches, turning often. Remove with a slotted spoon and keep warm. Drain skillet.
  2. Drain pineapple, reserving juice; set pineapple aside. Add enough water to juice to measure 1 cup. In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, pineapple juice mixture, vinegar, soy sauce, lemon juice and brown sugar until smooth. Add to skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add meatballs. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the pineapple; heat through.

Nutrition Facts

1 meatball: 37 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.