Sweet, tangy, and irresistible, these saucy slow pineapple brown sugar meatballs are always a hit! If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that crockpot meatballs are the MVP of appetizers. They’re ridiculously easy, budget-friendly, and always the first thing to disappear at any party.
This version is packed with bold, sweet-and-savory flavor, thanks to a sticky sauce made with pineapple, brown sugar, and just the right amount of kick. Toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it, A few hours later, you’ve got juicy meatballs coated in a glossy, flavor-packed sauce with tender bell peppers and pineapple chunks. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal or party bite, and yes, you’ll be going back for seconds.
Why We’re Obsessed with These Meatballs
- Game Day MVP: These are always a hit on game day, whether it’s preseason or the big game, they never disappoint.
- So Simple: Throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its thing while you focus on other tasks (or relax!).
- Budget Friendly: No fancy ingredients here, just pantry staples and a bag of frozen meatballs.
- Bright + Bold Flavors: The combo of sweet pineapple, savory sauce, and a little heat hits all the right notes.
What You’ll Need
- Frozen Meatballs: You can use homemade beef, turkey, chicken meatballs. If you want super simple, grab a frozen bag from the store. Just make sure they’re frozen or well-chilled so they hold together while cooking.
- Pineapple Juice: Brings a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sauce. Apple or orange juice will work in a pinch!
- Brown Sugar: Sweetens and deepens the flavor. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or sub your favorite sweetener.
- Ketchup: Adds tang and a rich tomato base to the sauce. Crushed tomatoes can work if you adjust for sweetness and acidity.
- Bell Peppers: Use any color you love, red, yellow, or green. They add a pop of color and a subtle crunch.
- Pineapple Chunks: Canned or fresh both work. They soak up the sauce and bring amazing flavor.
- Chicken Broth: I prefer low-sodium so you can season to taste.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings to every bite.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds that deep umami flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Garlic + Seasonings: Garlic, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes bring the flavor home. Adjust to your liking.
How to Make Pineapple Brown Sugar Meatballs in the Crockpot
Whisk the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, garlic, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
Add to the Crockpot
Place your meatballs, diced bell peppers, and pineapple chunks in the slow cooker.
Pour + Stir
Pour the sauce over everything and gently stir to coat.
Set and Forget
Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours, or until the sauce is thickened and the meatballs are heated through. That’s it!
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Want a little more kick? Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
- Switch Up the Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like onions, carrots, or snap peas. Add softer veggies during the last hour so they don’t overcook.
- Change the Meat: Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version. Homemade meatballs are great, just make sure they’re chilled or frozen before adding to the slow cooker so they hold together.
How to Serve Them
These meatballs are a total crowd-pleaser as an appetizer, just serve with toothpicks and watch them vanish. But they also make a great dinner! Spoon them over white or brown rice, or even some fluffy mashed potatoes for a fun twist.
How to Store Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce needs thinning.
Can You Freeze Them?
Absolutely! Let the meatballs cool to room temp, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Print
Slow Cooker Pineapple Brown Sugar Meatballs
Sweet, tangy, and irresistible, these saucy slow pineapple brown sugar meatballs are always a hit! If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that crockpot meatballs are the MVP of appetizers. They’re ridiculously easy, budget-friendly, and always the first thing to disappear at any party.
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Pineapple Brown Sugar Sauce
1 1/2 cup pineapple juice
1 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons corn starch
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8–1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more if you like it spicy!
Meatballs
2 lbs precooked or browned beef meatballs* (fresh or frozen)
2 medium bell peppers (cut into 1/2″ pieces)
1 1/2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
Sliced green onion or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by whisking together the sauce, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire, cornstarch, garlic, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes in a bowl until smooth and well blended.
- Next, add your meatballs, chopped bell peppers, and pineapple chunks to a 4-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over everything, then give it a gentle stir to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Pop the lid on and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, until the sauce is thick and the meatballs are warmed through. Give it a quick taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
