Hawaiian Meatballs

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Introduction

Hawaiian Meatballs are a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. These tender meatballs are coated in a luscious pineapple glaze made with a combination of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and umami.


The recipe is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party, as a game day snack, or as a main dish over rice or noodles, these Hawaiian-inspired meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser.


With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, Hawaiian Meatballs are a quick and easy way to add some island-inspired flair to your meal. Their vibrant glaze and juicy texture make them a standout dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious!

Perfect for:

  • Parties and gatherings
  • Appetizers or snack
  • Weeknight meals
  • Game day snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Hawaiian Meatballs are a must-try:

  • Flavorful: The sweet and tangy pineapple glaze brings out the best in the savory meatballs.
  • Quick & Easy: A simple recipe with easy-to-find ingredients and a short cooking time.
  • Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: These Hawaiian-inspired meatballs are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein from meatballs, with a sweet pineapple glaze that adds extra flavor.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Pineapple Glaze:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh or from a can with no added sugar)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for a tangy touch)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder (optional, for extra depth)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef or Turkey: Provides the base for the meatballs, and turkey is a leaner option.
  • Pineapple Glaze: A sweet and savory sauce made with pineapple juice and soy sauce that brings the Hawaiian flavors.
  • Breadcrumbs & Parmesan: Helps to bind the meatballs and gives them a nice texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Meatballs:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  3. Shape the Meatballs:
    Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  4. Bake the Meatballs:
    Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Make the Pineapple Glaze:

  1. Combine the Glaze Ingredients:
    In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Stir to combine.
  2. Thicken the Glaze:
    In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan while stirring constantly. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Coat the Meatballs:

  1. Combine Meatballs and Glaze:
    Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the pineapple glaze over the meatballs and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve the Hawaiian meatballs immediately with a garnish of chopped green onions or cilantro.

How to Serve

Hawaiian Meatballs are versatile and can be served in many ways:

  • As an appetizer: Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking.
  • With rice: Serve the meatballs over a bed of steamed rice to make it a full meal.
  • In a sandwich: Place the meatballs in a sub roll for a tasty sandwich.
  • With vegetables: Pair with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for a lighter meal.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Pineapple if Possible: Fresh pineapple adds a bright and natural sweetness that canned pineapple can’t fully replicate. Dice it finely for better flavor distribution.
  • Pre-Bake or Pan-Sear Meatballs: If you’re not slow-cooking, consider pan-searing or baking the meatballs before adding them to the sauce. This locks in the juices and adds a bit of texture.
  • Don’t Skip Breadcrumbs: Adding breadcrumbs (or a substitute like crushed crackers or panko) to the meatball mix helps them stay moist and prevents them from falling apart.
  • Add a Splash of Soy Sauce: For an umami boost, add a teaspoon of soy sauce to the sauce mixture or meatball mix.
  • Incorporate Garlic and Ginger: Finely grated ginger and minced garlic can enhance the tropical and savory flavors in both the meatballs and the sauce.
  • Use a Thickening Agent: If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or parsley before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
  • Balance Sweet and Tangy Flavors: Taste the sauce before adding the meatballs and adjust the sweetness (with brown sugar) or tanginess (with rice vinegar or lime juice) as needed.
  • Add Bell Peppers: For color and a crunchy texture, toss in diced red, yellow, or green bell peppers. Sauté them slightly before mixing them into the sauce.
  • Serve with a Base: Pair your Hawaiian meatballs with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Pineapple Meatballs: For a bold twist, add chopped jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. This version pairs perfectly with ground pork or turkey for a slightly lighter yet flavorful dish.
  • Teriyaki-Glazed Hawaiian Meatballs: Replace the traditional sweet-and-sour sauce with teriyaki sauce for a savory, umami-packed variation. Garnish the dish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions for an added touch.
  • Coconut Pineapple Meatballs: Incorporate shredded coconut directly into the meatball mixture to create a tropical texture. Enhance the sauce by using coconut milk for a creamy, island-inspired flavor.
  • BBQ Hawaiian Meatballs: Combine pineapple juice with your favorite BBQ sauce to create a tangy-sweet glaze. To elevate the dish further, serve it alongside or topped with grilled pineapple slices.
  • Mango-Pineapple Meatballs: Blend fresh or canned mango with pineapple to create a smooth and vibrant sauce. Add diced mango into the sauce for an additional burst of texture and sweetness.
  • Vegetarian Hawaiian Meatballs: For a plant-based option, use a meat alternative like Beyond Meat or create meatballs from lentils and breadcrumbs. Keep the pineapple sauce traditional to maintain the dish’s tropical essence.
  • Bacon-Wrapped Hawaiian Meatballs: Wrap each meatball with a strip of bacon before baking, allowing the bacon to crisp up beautifully. During the last few minutes of cooking, glaze the meatballs with a generous coating of pineapple sauce.
  • Hawaiian Meatball Sliders: Transform the meatballs into a handheld treat by serving them on soft Hawaiian sweet rolls. Top each slider with a slice of pineapple and melted cheese for a delightful bite-sized snack.
  • Tropical Curry Hawaiian Meatballs: Add a touch of curry powder or paste to the sauce for a fusion of tropical and aromatic flavors. Use coconut milk as the base for a creamy curry sauce that complements the meatballs.
  • Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chili Meatballs: Combine sweet chili sauce with pineapple chunks to create a slightly spicy glaze. Finish the dish with a garnish of fresh cilantro and lime zest for a vibrant, zesty kick.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: These meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with some extra sauce.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Sheet: For baking the meatballs.
  • Saucepan: To make the pineapple glaze.
  • Mixing Bowls: For combining the meatball ingredients and the glaze.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
    Yes, ground turkey works perfectly and is a leaner alternative.
  2. Can I make the glaze spicier?
    Yes, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the glaze for added spice.
  3. How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
    Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  4. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Meatballs are a mouthwatering dish that perfectly blends savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite. The tender meatballs are coated in a luscious pineapple glaze made with a combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar for the perfect balance of flavors. These meatballs are versatile and can be served as a party appetizer, paired with rice for a main dish, or even as sliders for a fun twist.

This recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. The juicy pineapple glaze adds a tropical flair that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. You can even prepare them ahead of time and reheat for convenience, making them ideal for entertaining or meal prep.

Whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, Hawaiian Meatballs are guaranteed to impress. Their irresistible flavor combination and simple preparation make them a must-try recipe. So grab your ingredients, whip up these flavorful meatballs, and transport your taste buds to the tropics!

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