Trends Recipes

Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

The Story & Intro

Every time I make Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs, I’m instantly taken back to warm family gatherings where food sat bubbling gently while conversations flowed around the table. Hi, I’m INAYA, 38, from the beautiful island of Crete, Greece, and cooking has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I learned early on from my grandmother that the best meals don’t need to be complicated they just need heart.

When I first experimented with Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs, I wanted something comforting yet playful. The sweetness of pineapple reminds me of summer days by the sea, while the savory teriyaki sauce adds that deep, cozy flavor we all crave. This recipe quickly became one of those dishes I turn to when I want something easy but impressive the kind of meal that makes people ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished their plate.

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I believe food brings people together, especially women who love sharing warmth and happiness through cooking. My kitchen can get a little messy (okay, a lot messy 😄), but that’s where the fun lives. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding a busy family, or just craving something delicious, Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs feel like home simple, flavorful, and made with love.


Ingredients

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Here’s what you’ll need to bring these sweet-and-savory meatballs to life. Don’t worry everything is easy to find and beginner-friendly.

  • Frozen meatballs (beef or turkey both work beautifully)
  • Pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
  • Teriyaki sauce
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Garlic
  • Fresh ginger (or ground ginger)
  • Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • Green onions (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional but lovely)

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Making Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs couldn’t be easier your slow cooker does almost all the work.

  1. Add the meatballs
    Place the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker. No need to thaw this is one of those magical shortcuts I adore.
  2. Prepare the sauce
    In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger. Taste it — it should be sweet, savory, and a little bold.
  3. Add pineapple
    Pour the pineapple chunks (with a bit of the juice) over the meatballs. That juicy sweetness is what makes these meatballs unforgettable.
  4. Combine everything
    Pour the sauce over the meatballs and pineapple. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
  5. Slow cook
    Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, stirring once or twice if you can.
  6. Thicken (optional)
    If you like a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 20 minutes.
  7. Finish & garnish
    Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are incredibly versatile one of the reasons I love them so much.

  • Serve over steamed white or jasmine rice
  • Pair with fluffy brown rice for a wholesome twist
  • Spoon them into slider buns for a fun party bite
  • Add to a bowl with rice, veggies, and extra sauce
  • Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks for gatherings

They’re perfect for potlucks, game days, busy weeknights, or when you simply want something comforting without stress.


Recipe Card

⏱️ Time

PrepCookTotal
10 min4 hrs4 hrs 10 min

🛒 Ingredients

ItemAmount
Frozen meatballs2 lbs
Pineapple chunks20 oz
Teriyaki sauce1 cup
Soy sauce2 tbsp
Brown sugar¼ cup
Garlic3 cloves
Ginger1 tsp
Cornstarch1 tbsp (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

StepAction
1Add meatballs to slow cooker
2Mix sauce ingredients
3Add pineapple
4Pour sauce & stir
5Cook low 4–5 hrs
6Thicken if desired
7Garnish & serve

📝 Notes

Tip
Turkey meatballs work great
Adjust sweetness to taste
Double for parties

🍽️ Nutrition

Per Serving
Calories: ~320
Protein: 18g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 14g

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are more than just a recipe they’re a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. From my kitchen in Crete to yours, I hope this dish brings warmth, smiles, and maybe a little mess along the way. Cooking is about sharing stories, creating memories, and enjoying every bite together. 💛

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