Hawaiian Meatballs are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. These bite-sized delights are coated in a luscious pineapple glaze that brings a tropical twist to classic meatballs. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for a quick appetizer or a main dish paired with rice. The combination of pork, ginger, and soy sauce gives them a unique taste that will make your taste buds dance!
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something delicious, these Hawaiian Meatballs are sure to impress your guests and family. The bright pineapple glaze adds a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meatballs, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground pork
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
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1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon pepper
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 cup pineapple juice
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1/2 cup chopped pineapple (fresh or canned)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, green onions, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
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Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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While the meatballs bake, make the pineapple glaze. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
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Add chopped pineapple to the glaze and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
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Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a serving dish and pour the pineapple glaze over the top. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
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Serve the Hawaiian meatballs hot as an appetizer or with rice as a main dish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Unique Fusion of Flavors
The beauty of Hawaiian Meatballs lies in the marriage of two distinct culinary traditions. While meatballs are typically associated with Italian or American comfort food, adding pineapple and soy sauce takes the dish to new heights, making it feel more exotic and vibrant. Pineapple’s natural sweetness blends beautifully with the savory elements of the pork, and the soy sauce and brown sugar add an umami richness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
The infusion of ginger and garlic brings an aromatic freshness that elevates the taste of the meatballs, making them not only flavorful but also highly aromatic. This dish is an excellent representation of how different ingredients can come together to form something delicious and unexpected.
Versatile and Easy to Make
One of the most appealing aspects of this dish is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences, and the recipe is simple enough for home cooks of any skill level. The meatballs themselves are made with ground pork, which gives them a juicy, tender texture. However, if you’re looking to make a leaner version, you can substitute the pork for ground turkey or chicken. The breadcrumbs, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese provide a light but flavorful binding that holds everything together.
The pineapple glaze is what truly makes these meatballs shine. Its combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch creates a glossy, sticky sauce that coats the meatballs in a luscious glaze. The pineapple chunks add texture and a fresh burst of sweetness, making each bite both tender and juicy.
This recipe also gives you room to experiment with different ingredients. You could add a splash of hot sauce or sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick, or incorporate a little lime juice for added acidity. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a great base for your own personal touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Hawaiian Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served at a variety of occasions. Whether you are hosting a casual dinner for your family, preparing food for a potluck, or planning a holiday gathering, these meatballs are a crowd-pleasing dish that will never disappoint. Their small, bite-sized nature makes them ideal as an appetizer or snack at parties. You can even serve them as a main course, paired with a bed of rice or some sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
For those who love finger food at parties, Hawaiian Meatballs are perfect for serving alongside a tropical cocktail or mocktail. They are also an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, where you want to serve something different than the usual fare. Their bright flavors and tropical flair will make them a standout dish at any event.
Healthier Than You Think
Though these meatballs are rich in flavor, they are not overwhelmingly heavy, making them a healthier option compared to many other meatball dishes. The use of lean pork and the natural sweetness of pineapple reduces the need for added sugar or excessive seasoning. The glaze, though sweet, is made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and a small amount of brown sugar, making it a much lighter option than some other sticky sauces. Additionally, the meatballs are baked rather than fried, which cuts down on unnecessary fats.
For those with dietary preferences, Hawaiian Meatballs can easily be modified. They can be made gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can even swap out the breadcrumbs entirely and use ground almonds or coconut flour instead. This recipe is flexible, so it’s easy to adapt it to fit various dietary needs.
Impressive Presentation
Not only are Hawaiian Meatballs delicious, but they also look visually appealing. The golden-brown meatballs, glistening with pineapple glaze, look inviting and festive. When served on a platter with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and some fresh cilantro or green onions on top, they create an eye-catching dish that is sure to impress your guests. You can also garnish them with a wedge of lime or additional pineapple chunks to add a pop of color and tangy freshness.
For a more elaborate presentation, you can serve the meatballs on a bed of jasmine rice or coconut rice. The rice will absorb the extra glaze and add another layer of flavor to the dish. Additionally, pairing the meatballs with a refreshing salad, such as a cucumber or avocado salad, can create a well-rounded and visually stunning meal.
How to Make Hawaiian Meatballs Ahead of Time
Hawaiian Meatballs are perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time. You can prepare the meatballs and glaze a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave, pour the glaze over them, and garnish. This makes them an excellent choice for busy weeknights, parties, or family gatherings where you want to save time on the day of the event.
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Hawaiian Meatballs store beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well, so you can make a large batch and save them for later. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for All Ages
Hawaiian Meatballs are not only appealing to adults but are also kid-friendly. The sweet pineapple glaze is a big hit with children, who will enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors. The bite-sized meatballs make them easy for little hands to pick up and eat, making them a perfect option for a family-friendly meal. You can also serve them as part of a kid’s birthday party menu or a family dinner that will keep everyone happy.
Conclusion: A Flavorful and Fun Dish to Add to Your Recipe Collection
Hawaiian Meatballs are an easy, flavorful, and impressive dish that brings a tropical twist to your table. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, their sweet and savory profile is sure to win over your guests. The use of ground pork, combined with a pineapple glaze, creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Additionally, the recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit different dietary preferences, making it suitable for a wide range of audiences.
The best part? Hawaiian Meatballs are easy to make, and they look as good as they taste. Their unique flavor profile and vibrant presentation make them a perfect choice for both casual meals and special occasions. So, why not give this recipe a try? It’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner.