Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs combine the best of both worlds: the savory goodness of meatballs with the tangy-sweet flavor of pineapple and teriyaki sauce. This dish is the perfect appetizer for parties, a quick weeknight dinner, or a delightful treat for family and friends. The combination of teriyaki sauce, pineapple, and meatballs creates a flavorful explosion that’s sure to please anyone’s palate.

These Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are incredibly easy to make, and they require only a few ingredients, making it an ideal dish for busy cooks who still want something delicious and impressive. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, game night, or casual dinner, this dish will add that perfect sweet and savory flavor that everyone loves.

These Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs offer a unique spin on traditional meatball recipes, incorporating bold, sweet flavors that make the dish unforgettable. They are also versatile, so whether you’re craving a tangy snack or a main course, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

For more ideas on easy, flavorful meals, check out this guide to making easy appetizer recipes or explore more about teriyaki sauce and its versatility.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs Recipe – Sweet & Savory Party Appetizer

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 30-40 meatballs 1x

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Description

Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are a sweet and savory appetizer or main dish that combines the tangy richness of teriyaki sauce with the juicy sweetness of crushed pineapple. These flavorful meatballs are cooked in a delicious sauce made with garlic, green onions, and a hint of pineapple, making them perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bottle teriyaki sauce (20.5 oz)
• 1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz)
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 2 lbs frozen meatballs (about 30–40 meatballs)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large saucepan, combine the teriyaki sauce and crushed pineapple (with juice). Stir in the pressed garlic and chopped green onions. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

2. Cook the Meatballs:
   Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat the meatballs with the sauce. Cover the saucepan and let the meatballs cook in the sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

3. Serve:
   Once the meatballs are cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Garnish with additional chopped green onions, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid or stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
• These meatballs pair great with rice, noodles, or as an appetizer on toothpicks.
• You can also make these with homemade meatballs if you prefer, but frozen meatballs are a convenient option for a quick meal.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs Recipe

Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce and Pineapple Mixture

1. Combine Teriyaki Sauce and Pineapple: In a large saucepan or skillet, pour in the teriyaki sauce and add the crushed pineapple (including juice). Stir the ingredients together so they are well combined. The pineapple juice will add an extra layer of sweetness to the sauce.
2. Add Garlic and Green Onions: Press the garlic cloves and stir them into the sauce mixture. The garlic will infuse the sauce with a wonderful, aromatic depth. Next, chop the green onions and add them to the mixture. These will add a mild, fresh onion flavor and slight crunch to the sauce.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Turn the heat to medium, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will also help the garlic and onions soften, creating a smooth, fragrant sauce.

Cook the Meatballs

4. Add Frozen Meatballs: Now, take your frozen meatballs and add them directly into the simmering sauce. No need to thaw them beforehand—the heat from the sauce will warm them up quickly while absorbing all the wonderful flavors. Stir the meatballs gently to ensure they are all coated with the sauce.
5. Simmer and Heat Through: Continue simmering the meatballs in the sauce for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the sauce doesn’t burn or stick to the bottom of the pan. This will also allow the meatballs to fully absorb the sweet and savory sauce. The sauce should thicken slightly as the meatballs cook.
6. Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked through and fully coated with the sauce, remove from heat. You can serve them right from the pan or transfer them to a serving platter. Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are fantastic served on their own as an appetizer, or you can pair them with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles for a complete meal.

Advanced Techniques

1. Adding a Touch of Spice

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a small amount of red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the teriyaki-pineapple sauce. This will give the dish an added layer of flavor and spice that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.

If you enjoy a smoky flavor, you can also add a small splash of liquid smoke to the sauce for a more complex taste profile.

2. Using Fresh Meatballs

While frozen meatballs are convenient and quick, using homemade or fresh meatballs will elevate this dish to another level. Homemade meatballs can be made with a combination of ground beef, pork, or chicken, seasoned with garlic, onion powder, parsley, and parmesan for an extra flavor boost. Simply cook your fresh meatballs in the sauce, just like you would with frozen meatballs.

Fresh meatballs provide a rich and juicy bite that is perfectly complemented by the tangy teriyaki sauce.

3. Thickening the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can make a simple cornstarch slurry. Mix about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, and stir the mixture into the simmering sauce. This will help thicken the sauce to your desired consistency, giving it a luscious, glaze-like texture that clings beautifully to the meatballs.

4. Make It in a Slow Cooker

To prepare this dish ahead of time or cook it without much active attention, consider using a slow cooker. Place the teriyaki sauce, crushed pineapple, garlic, green onions, and frozen meatballs into the slow cooker. Set it on low and cook for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This method is great for busy days or parties where you need to prepare food in advance. The slow cooker will help meld the flavors even more, creating a rich and savory sauce.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

How to Store Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

Once your meatballs have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the meatballs are fully submerged in the sauce to prevent them from drying out. If you have extra sauce, be sure to store it in a separate container to keep the meatballs moist.

Freezing Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

To freeze these meatballs, place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Make sure they are covered with sauce and separated by parchment paper if necessary to avoid sticking together. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.

When you are ready to serve, defrost the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also heat them directly from frozen, though it will take a little longer.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until they are heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this could make the meatballs dry. Alternatively, you can microwave the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free version of Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs, make sure to use gluten-free teriyaki sauce. Many commercial teriyaki sauces contain soy sauce, which is made from wheat. Fortunately, you can find plenty of gluten-free options at most grocery stores, or you can make your own using tamari sauce as a base.

Low-Sugar Version

To make these meatballs low-sugar, simply substitute the teriyaki sauce with a sugar-free version or a homemade teriyaki sauce made with stevia or monk fruit. Use a sugar substitute for the pineapple juice, or opt for a no-sugar-added pineapple version. This will keep the dish flavorful without the added sugars.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the meatballs with vegetarian meatballs made from lentils, quinoa, or soy-based ingredients like tofu. There are also plenty of pre-made vegetarian meatball options available that can be used as a substitute in this recipe. Just be sure to use a plant-based teriyaki sauce and confirm that the other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh meatballs in place of frozen ones. Just make sure to cook them fully before adding them to the sauce. Fresh meatballs will bring an extra juicy and flavorful element to the dish.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki-pineapple sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the meatballs and heat them through in the sauce.

How can I serve Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs?

These meatballs can be served on their own as an appetizer, or paired with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles for a complete meal. You can also serve them as part of a party spread or game day snacks.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are a deliciously simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of pineapple and the savory depth of teriyaki sauce. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or a main course, these meatballs will impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and easy-to-make nature. The combination of pineapple and teriyaki makes this dish irresistibly tasty, and it’s a perfect recipe for any occasion.

Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs. They are sure to become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire!