Beloved Meatballs

juicy, flavorful meatballs are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. Easy to make and packed with savory goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Chef Tips

Use fresh breadcrumbs soaked in milk for extra moisture and softness.
Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Brown the meatballs in batches to ensure even cooking and a nice crust.

Ingredients 0/7

1 (13.25 ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice 1 green bell pepper, sliced ½ cup brown sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 (3 pound) bag frozen cooked meatballs, thawed

Why This Recipe Is So Tasty

These meatballs are packed with rich flavors and a perfect balance of herbs and spices. They stay tender and juicy inside while developing a delicious crust on the outside. They bring comfort and joy to any meal, making them a favorite for family dinners.

Step 1

Pour the pineapple chunks along with their juice into a saucepan. Add the chopped green bell pepper, brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Give everything a good stir until the sugar and cornstarch have completely dissolved.

Step 2

Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep stirring occasionally as it cooks for about 10 minutes, until it thickens nicely.

Step 3

While the sauce is cooking, arrange the meatballs in your slow cooker. Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the meatballs, making sure they’re well coated.

Step 4

Set the slow cooker to medium and let it cook for around two hours. Be sure to give everything a gentle stir every half hour so the flavors meld together and nothing sticks.

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people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

Best Ways To Serve

Serve these meatballs over spaghetti with marinara sauce for a classic meal. They also work great as a hearty sandwich filling or paired with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a cozy dinner.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat gently to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple chunks?

Yes, fresh pineapple works well. Use about 1 to 1½ cups of chopped pineapple and include some juice or a little water to maintain the sauce consistency.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar, honey, or maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.

Can I cook the meatballs on the stove instead of using a slow cooker?

Yes, after making the sauce, simmer the meatballs and sauce together in a large skillet over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and thickened.

How do I prevent the sauce from sticking or burning in the slow cooker?

Stir the meatballs and sauce gently every 30 minutes and keep the slow cooker on medium heat to avoid sticking.

Can I freeze the cooked meatballs with the sauce?

Yes, allow the dish to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

It depends on the meatballs and soy sauce you use. Choose gluten-free soy sauce and check the meatball ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, vegetables like onions, carrots, or red bell peppers can be added to enhance flavor and texture.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it spicier?

This recipe is mild. To add heat, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce.