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Hawaiian Meatballs

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Hawaiian Meatballs are juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce with bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Perfect as a tropical-inspired main dish over rice or a fun appetizer for parties.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into bite-sized meatballs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce begins to thicken.
  5. Add chopped bell peppers and pineapple chunks to the sauce. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the peppers are just tender.
  6. Return the meatballs to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked through and flavors combine.
  7. Serve hot over steamed rice or as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

Notes

  • Use canned pineapple chunks with juice for convenience.Baking the meatballs at 400°F for 18–20 minutes is a hands-off alternative to pan-frying.Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy version.Substitute cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.Make ahead by freezing meatballs and sauce separately, then combine when reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/hawaiian-meatballs-recipe/