Hawaiian Meatballs

Hawaiian meatballs are a supremely delicious main course smothered in a sweet and tangy pineapple-infused sauce. In this recipe, the meatballs are simmered low and slow for hours until the meat is tender and juicy and the sauce is perfectly thickened. Serve Hawaiian meatballs over a bed of steamed rice or buttery noodles alongside greens for a family-friendly meal that people of all ages will devour.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Meatballs

• Pineapple chunks: Don’t drain the unsweetened pineapple chunks; the liquid will create a nice sauce for the meatballs.
• Brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-esque flavor to Hawaiian meatballs.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch acts as a thickener for the sauce.
• Cider vinegar: This adds a nice tang to the flavor.
• Frozen (fully cooked) meatballs: Use frozen meatballs to save time or make your own.
• Green peppers: Feel free to increase the veggies by adding red bell pepper and onion.
• Maraschino cherries: Maraschino cherries provide a sweet tartness to this Hawaiian meatball recipe.
• Hot cooked rice (optional): Use the rice of your choosing (brown or white work equally well).

Directions

Step 1: Boil the juices

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Drain the pineapple, reserving the juice in a 2-cup measuring cup; add enough water to measure 2 cups. In a small saucepan, mix the brown sugar, cornstarch, vinegar and juice mixture until blended. Bring to boil and cook. Stir the juices until thickened.

Step 2: Combine the ingredients in a slow cooker

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In a 3-quart slow cooker, combine the meatballs, peppers, drained pineapple and sauce. Cover and cook on low for six to eight hours or until the meatballs are heated through and the peppers are tender.

Step 3: Add the cherries and prepare to serve

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Stir in the cherries; cover and cook on low for 15 to 30 minutes longer or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, serve with rice.

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Hawaiian Meatball Variations

• Make them with chicken or turkey: You can use turkey or chicken meatballs if you’d prefer.
• Ramp up the pineapple: Can’t get enough pineapple? Serve these meatballs with chili-lime grilled pineapple on top.
• Add garnishes: We recommend garnishing your meatballs with fresh cilantro and/or sesame seeds.

How to Store Hawaiian Meatballs

You can store leftover Hawaiian meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can you make Hawaiian meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. Then, you can either freeze them (they’ll stay good for at least two months) or refrigerate them (for a couple of days in advance).

Hawaiian Meatball Tips

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Aside from pairing with rice, what are some other ways to serve a Hawaiian meatball recipe?

We also like serving Hawaiian meatballs on buttery egg noodles or in mini sliders on Hawaiian rolls. Side dishes that pair well with these meatballs include charred broccoli and Asian cucumber salad. You can also serve them with the steamed veggies of your choice.

How do I make Hawaiian meatballs more spicy?

To make these meatballs more spicy, add jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes in Step 2.

Do I have to make these Hawaiian meatballs in a slow cooker?

If you’d prefer to cook your meatballs in a skillet, we’d recommend checking out our recipe for Polynesian meatballs.