The Story & Intro
Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks always remind me how food can instantly lift your mood. Even though I grew up in Crete, far from Hawaii, my grandmother believed flavors didn’t have borders. She loved experimenting, especially when sweet met savory. I still remember the first time I combined juicy meatballs with pineapple and a glossy teriyaki sauce. My kitchen smelled incredible, and the dish disappeared faster than I expected.
These Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks feel playful, warm, and comforting all at once. They’re perfect when you want something fun but still homemade. The sweetness of pineapple balances beautifully with the salty-sweet teriyaki glaze, and the meatballs stay tender and juicy. I often make Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks for family gatherings or cozy evenings when everyone wants something different but comforting.
What I love most about Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks is how easy they are. You don’t need complicated steps or fancy tools. Just simple ingredients, a little stirring, and a dish that brings smiles to the table.
Why You’ll Love These Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks
This recipe is the perfect mix of bold flavor and simplicity. The teriyaki sauce coats each meatball with a sticky glaze, while the pineapple adds bursts of juicy sweetness. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
These meatballs work as an appetizer, party dish, or even a full dinner served over rice. They’re family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and easy enough for busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒🍍
Simple ingredients come together to create something special.
- Ground beef (or ground turkey)
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- Pineapple juice
- Teriyaki sauce
- Ginger powder
- Cornstarch
- Green onions for garnish
Each ingredient plays a role, from the juicy meatballs to the glossy, flavorful sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions 🔥🍲
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, soy sauce, and ginger. Gently combine until just mixed. Overmixing can make meatballs tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into evenly sized balls. This helps them cook evenly and look beautiful on the plate.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.
Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a saucepan, combine teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir over medium heat until thick and glossy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the browned meatballs and pineapple chunks to the sauce. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Simmer
Let the meatballs simmer for about 10–15 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the meatballs will finish cooking while soaking up flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks taste amazing when served with:
- Steamed white or jasmine rice
- Fried rice
- Noodles
- As toothpick appetizers
- Inside slider buns for a fun twist
This dish adapts easily to casual dinners or party tables.
Short 100-Word Version
Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks are sweet, savory, and incredibly easy to make. Juicy meatballs simmer in a glossy teriyaki sauce with tender pineapple pieces that add the perfect touch of sweetness. This recipe comes together quickly and works as an appetizer or a main dish over rice. The flavors are bold yet comforting, making it a family favorite for busy nights or gatherings. If you’re craving something fun, cozy, and full of flavor, these Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks are a delicious choice.
⭐ Recipe Card ⭐
⏱️ TIME COOK
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
🛒 INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Green onions for garnish
🧑🍳 INSTRUCTION
- Mix meatball ingredients
- Shape into balls
- Brown meatballs
- Prepare teriyaki sauce
- Add meatballs and pineapple
- Simmer until thick
📝 NOTE
Use fresh pineapple for extra flavor, or canned for convenience.
🥗 Nutrition (Approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 28g
Tips for the Best Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks ✅
- Don’t overmix the meat
- Brown meatballs for deeper flavor
- Adjust sweetness with extra pineapple juice
- Simmer gently to keep meatballs tender
Conclusion
Teriyaki Hawaiian Meatballs with Pineapple Chunks prove that comfort food can be playful and exciting. This recipe blends sweet and savory flavors in a way that feels familiar yet special. It’s easy enough for beginners and satisfying enough for experienced cooks. Every bite brings warmth, joy, and a little escape to somewhere sunny. From my kitchen to yours, I hope this dish becomes part of your family’s favorite meals and shared memories. 🍍💛