Description
These Pineapple BBQ Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, combining the sweetness of pineapple with savory BBQ flavors. Tender meatballs are coated in a sticky, tangy sauce that’s bursting with tropical taste. Perfect for a party appetizer or served over rice for a meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean beef or pork)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 handful cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for baking
For the Pineapple BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon molasses (NOT blackstrap)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1 cup finely diced pineapple OR canned crushed pineapple
Instructions
- Make the meatballs: Place all ingredients EXCEPT for the oil in a large bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated and sticks together. Shape into meatballs and place on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs: Preheat the oven to 410°F. Bake the meatballs for 10-12 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- Make the sauce: Whisk all sauce ingredients (except pineapple) in a skillet. Stir in the pineapple, bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened.
- Finish the dish: Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until glazed.
Notes
- Freezing the meatballs briefly before baking can help them retain their shape.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Pineapple BBQ Meatballs, Meatball Recipe, BBQ Meatballs