These Easy Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Meatballs are the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again. They’re sweet, savory, and incredibly simple, making them perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or stress-free entertaining. With juicy meatballs simmered in tangy barbecue sauce, tender peppers and onions, and bursts of sweet pineapple, every bite is packed with bold flavor. Best of all, your slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the slow cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later.
2. Add the ingredients
Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker first. Then add the barbecue sauce, well-drained pineapple chunks, minced garlic, onion chunks, and red bell pepper pieces.
3. Stir to combine
Gently stir everything together until the meatballs and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Try not to break the pineapple pieces.
4. Slow cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. During this time, the meatballs will heat through and absorb all that sweet and savory flavor.
5. Final stir and serve
Give everything one last gentle stir before serving. Serve hot as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
Helpful Tips
- Drain the pineapple well: Too much liquid can thin out the sauce.
- Use any BBQ sauce you love: Smoky, honey, spicy, or classic all work great.
- Cut vegetables evenly: This helps them cook at the same rate and stay tender-crisp.
- Keep warm for parties: Once cooked, switch the slow cooker to the “Warm” setting for serving.
- Double easily: This recipe scales up perfectly for potlucks or parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this on HIGH instead of LOW?
Yes. You can cook on HIGH for about 2½–3 hours, stirring once halfway through.
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Absolutely. Fully cook them first before adding to the slow cooker.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Let leftovers cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to serve these as a meal?
They’re delicious over rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or even inside slider buns.
Can I make this less sweet?
Use a less sweet barbecue sauce or add a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.
