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Are you ready to take your taste buds on a tropical adventure? The Tropical Tangy Pineapple BBQ Meatballs dish perfectly encapsulates the delightful fusion of tropical flavors with traditional barbecue elements. Picture juicy meatballs infused with the sweetness of ripe pineapple, all coated in a tangy barbecue sauce that promises to elevate any meal. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering, the star of a family dinner, or nestled in slider buns for a fun twist, these meatballs are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Pineapple BBQ Meatballs

Experience a burst of tropical flavor with Tropical Tangy Pineapple BBQ Meatballs! This delightful dish combines juicy meatballs with the sweetness of ripe pineapple and a tangy barbecue sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve them as appetizers, over rice, or in slider buns for a fun twist. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, these meatballs will elevate your culinary adventures. Discover how to create this mouthwatering fusion today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 large egg

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Pineapple BBQ Sauce:

1 cup pineapple juice

1 cup ketchup

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup soy sauce

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (can use canned if necessary)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

    Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, egg, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork the meat.

      Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

        Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

          Prepare the Pineapple BBQ Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring to a simmer.

            Add Pineapple: Once the sauce starts to thicken, add the fresh pineapple chunks, allowing them to soften slightly in the sauce. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

              Combine Meatballs with Sauce: When the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the BBQ sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

                Serve: Serve the Pineapple BBQ Meatballs warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. They can be served as an appetizer, over rice, or in sliders!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4-6 servings