If you’re looking for an effortless slow cooker recipe that’s always a hit, these Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs are exactly what you need. Tender meatballs simmer in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce that’s packed with tropical flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, game day snack, potluck favorite, or easy dinner over rice, these Hawaiian meatballs disappear fast.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to make. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The combination of juicy meatballs, pineapple chunks, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce creates a delicious glaze that’s both sweet and savory.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only a few simple ingredients
- Perfect make-ahead appetizer
- Great for parties and potlucks
- Easy slow cooker recipe
- Family-friendly flavors
- Delicious served over rice
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen fully cooked meatballs
- 20 ounces pineapple chunks, undrained
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
How To Make Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs
Step 1
Add the frozen meatballs to the crockpot.
Step 2
Pour the pineapple chunks and juice over the meatballs.
Step 3
In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
Step 4
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs. Add the chopped bell peppers.
Step 5
Stir everything together until coated.
Step 6
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
Step 7
Stir before serving and spoon extra sauce over the meatballs.
What To Serve With Hawaiian Meatballs
These sweet and savory meatballs pair perfectly with:
They also make an excellent appetizer served with toothpicks.
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Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 SERVINGS 1x
Description
These Easy Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs are sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Tender meatballs simmer in a flavorful pineapple barbecue sauce with colorful bell peppers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or easy family dinner served over rice.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen fully cooked meatballs
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, undrained
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
- Add the frozen meatballs to the crockpot.
- Pour the pineapple chunks and juice over the meatballs.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Stir before serving.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve over cooked white rice if desired.
Notes
- For a sweeter sauce, add an extra ¼ cup brown sugar.
- Use turkey meatballs for a lighter option.
- These meatballs make a great party appetizer served directly from the slow cooker.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 4-5 HOURS
- Category: APPETIZER | DINNER
- Method: SLOW COOKER
- Cuisine: HAWAIIAN INSPIRED
Tips For The Best Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs
- Use your favorite frozen meatballs for convenience.
- For extra sweetness, add additional pineapple chunks.
- Make them spicy by adding red pepper flakes or sriracha.
- Stir occasionally if possible for maximum flavor distribution.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, allow the meatballs to cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or slow cooker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Absolutely. Homemade meatballs work beautifully in this recipe. Simply brown them first before adding them to the slow cooker.
Can I make Hawaiian meatballs ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Start the slow cooker the next day.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Fresh pineapple works great and adds even more tropical flavor.
Are Hawaiian meatballs served as an appetizer or dinner?
Both! Serve them with toothpicks as a party appetizer or over rice for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs are one of those easy recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. The sweet pineapple, tangy barbecue sauce, and tender meatballs create the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a simple family dinner, this slow cooker recipe is guaranteed to be a favorite.
