These slow cooker BBQ meatballs are a breeze to prepare and make for a flavorful, fuss-free meal. Tender meatballs simmer in a tangy pineapple BBQ sauce, creating the perfect pairing for rice or noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to prep and kid-friendly, this dish is ideal for busy evenings. Whether you use homemade or store-bought meatballs, it’s an easy dinner option that’s sure to please.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Meatballs
- Use store-bought frozen meatballs for convenience or homemade for extra flavor. Chicken or turkey meatballs can also be substituted.
For the Sauce
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand; organic options often have cleaner ingredients and rich flavor.
- Crushed Pineapple: Use canned or freshly blended pineapple.
- Vegetables: Red onion and green bell pepper add texture and flavor. You can swap in zucchini or your preferred bell pepper variety for extra veggies.
How to Make BBQ Meatballs
- Prepare the Meatballs
If homemade, mix ground beef, seasonings, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan. Form into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and bake until cooked through. - Mix the Sauce
In the slow cooker, combine BBQ sauce, pineapple, diced onion, green pepper, and seasonings. Stir in the meatballs, ensuring they’re well coated. - Cook
Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. If using frozen meatballs, allow the full cooking time. During the last 30 minutes, leave the lid slightly ajar to thicken the sauce. - Serve
Serve warm over rice or noodles, alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days.
- Freeze: Store for up to 2 months and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.
This dish is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors with minimal effort.
Barbecue Meatballs Recipe FAQS
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double all the ingredients. Just be sure to use a crockpot large enough to fit a double portion.
Can I use frozen, store-bought meatballs?
Absolutely. Make the sauce in the crockpot, stir in the frozen meatballs then cook according to the recipe instructions.
What goes with BBQ meatballs for dinner?
Serve these with your favorite side dish recipes. Here are some suggestions:
Rice or noodles
Roasted Broccoli
Corn Salad
Roasted Carrots
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg whisked
- 2 Tablespoons whole milk
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or quick cooking oatmeal)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder onion
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
Sauce
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce (12 oz)
- 8 oz crushed Pineapple
- ½ cup red onion diced
- 1 green pepper diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
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