Hawaiian meatballs are a fun and tasty treat! They are made from juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce that gives them a tropical twist.
These meatballs are great for dinner or as party snacks. I love serving them with rice; it’s like a little vacation on my plate! Trust me, they disappear fast! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work as well!
Bread Crumbs: If you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. They help bind the meatballs while keeping them moist.
Pineapple Juice: For a fresh twist, blend your own from ripe pineapple. You can also use orange juice for a different fruity flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, try using breadcrumbs made with cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that adds umami flavor.
Soy Sauce: If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos are a great substitute. It has a similar taste with lower sodium!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Don’t Fall Apart?
To keep your meatballs together, it’s essential to mix the ingredients just enough without overworking the meat. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs.
- Use a light touch when combining ingredients, aiming for just enough coverage.
- Make sure your egg is well-beaten before adding it to the mixture. This helps bind everything together.
- If your mixture feels too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs or a spoon of flour for structure.
Lastly, don’t forget to let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after rolling, this helps them hold their shape when browning!
How to Make Hawaiian Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably from canned pineapple)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- Pineapple chunks (from the can or fresh)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
To Serve:
- Cooked white rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You will spend around 15 minutes mixing and forming the meatballs, followed by another 15 minutes cooking them in the sauce. It’s a quick and tasty meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix gently until everything is well combined but don’t overmix—it’s best to keep the meatballs tender. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure they get nicely browned on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir everything to combine well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously as it starts to thicken. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to create a nice, glossy sauce.
5. Cook the Meatballs in the Sauce:
Return the meatballs to the skillet, making sure they are covered in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let them simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and flavorful.
6. Add Pineapple Chunks:
Near the end of cooking, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet to warm through and soak up some of that delicious sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the meatballs over warm cooked white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds for a lovely finish!
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Meatballs, with the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that everyone will love!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may result in drier meatballs, so adding a bit more moisture, like extra milk or egg, can help.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare and form the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, and then cook them in the sauce when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can freeze raw meatballs for up to 3 months; just thaw them in the fridge before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Hawaiian meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Hawaiian Meatballs?
They pair wonderfully with rice, but you can also serve them with noodles, quinoa, or even on a bed of greens for a lighter meal. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complements the flavors nicely!
