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Sweet and savory slow cooker pineapple barbecue meatballs made with tender meatballs coated in tangy BBQ sauce, juicy pineapple chunks, brown sugar, and garlic. The meatballs are warm, glossy, and generously covered in the sweet-and-smoky sauce, making them an easy appetizer for parties, game day, or family gatherings.

Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs

Easy slow cooker pineapple barbecue meatballs made with frozen meatballs, BBQ sauce, pineapple chunks, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Sweet, tangy, and completely hands-off—perfect for parties or simple dinners.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings: 7
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package 16 oz frozen meatballs
  • 1 bottle 18 oz barbecue sauce
  • 1 can 20 oz pineapple chunks, undrained
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Method
 

  1. Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
  2. Pour the barbecue sauce and the undrained pineapple chunks over the meatballs.
  3. Add the brown sugar and garlic powder. Stir gently to coat.
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for about 2 hours, until the meatballs are fully heated through and the sauce is hot. Stir once if possible.
  5. Switch to WARM for serving. Serve with toothpicks or over rice, spooning extra sauce over the top.

Notes

No need to thaw the meatballs. Use the pineapple juice as well as the chunks. Stir gently once during cooking if available. Keep on WARM for parties. Excellent over rice as a main dish. Leftovers reheat well. Easily doubled. Adjust brown sugar or add a splash of vinegar to taste if desired.