Hi👋 I’m MARILYN, a 34-year-old from the United Kingdom. Cooking is my passion, and I love sharing delicious, easy-to-follow recipes. Join me on marilynrecipes.com to explore a world of culinary delights, from comforting classics to innovative creations. Let’s make cooking fun and enjoyable for everyone! Cooking is about more than just food — it’s about sharing stories and making memories.
I still remember the first time I made Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I wanted something simple, comforting, and just a little bit special. The sweet and tangy aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew my family would gather around the table, eager for a warm hug in the form of food. From that day on, this recipe became a go-to for potlucks, casual dinners, and any time I wanted a dish that’s both easy and unforgettable. The blend of pineapple sweetness, chili kick, and tender meatballs is nothing short of magical.
Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze are such a crowd-pleaser. Every time I make them, I think about my mum, who taught me how important it is to put love into every meal. I use frozen meatballs sometimes for convenience, and other times I make my own from scratch. Either way, the glaze is always the star. This recipe is my way of sharing comfort, warmth, and joy with anyone who steps into my kitchen.
Why I Love Making This Recipe
There’s something about Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze that makes me smile every time I make them. First, they’re ridiculously simple but feel special. Second, the sweet and slightly spicy glaze keeps everyone coming back for more. And finally, they bring people together whether it’s a family dinner, a friend gathering, or a weekend treat, this dish creates connection, laughter, and stories.
I love that I can prep the glaze and meatballs in minutes, then let the magic happen while I tidy up the kitchen or make a simple side of rice. It’s convenience without compromising flavor. This recipe always reminds me that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable.
Ingredients & Little Kitchen Secrets
Here’s what I always have ready when I make Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze:
- 1 lb (450g) frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, juice reserved)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder (or 1 tsp freshly grated ginger)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thicker glaze)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Little Kitchen Secrets:
- For extra tenderness, bake meatballs briefly before glazing.
- If using canned pineapple, keep the juice it enhances the glaze flavor.
- A splash of rice vinegar brightens the glaze and balances sweetness.
How I Make It, Step by Step
- Prep the meatballs: If frozen, bake or microwave according to package directions. If homemade, shape and bake until lightly golden.
- Mix the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Combine meatballs and glaze: Place meatballs in a skillet or crockpot, pour glaze over them, add pineapple chunks.
- Cook:
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring gently until meatballs are fully coated.
- Crockpot: Cook on low for 2 hours or high for 1 hour.
- Optional thickening: Stir in cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker glaze. Simmer 2–3 minutes until glossy.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
How I Serve It at Home
I love serving Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice. For a little extra, I sometimes add stir-fried vegetables or a simple side salad. My kids adore dipping the meatballs in extra glaze, and my husband likes sprinkling a few more chili flakes on top. I always serve it family-style, letting everyone take a plateful and enjoy the warm, sweet, and tangy flavors together.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Store cooled meatballs with glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat gently on the stovetop until warm.
- Make-Ahead: You can prep the meatballs and glaze a day ahead, then assemble and warm before serving. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or meal prep.
100-Word Short Version
Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze are sweet, sticky, and comforting. I start with tender meatballs, toss them in a mix of sweet chili sauce, hoisin, soy, and pineapple, then simmer until glossy. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, they’re perfect over steamed rice or as a potluck favorite. This recipe is easy, family-friendly, and full of flavor. Make it ahead for busy nights, and enjoy reheated leftovers the next day. Every bite is a sweet, tangy hug that brings loved ones together exactly why I adore making Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze.
Recipe Card Section
⏱️ Time
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 25 min
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped green onions (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Bake or cook meatballs if frozen.
- Whisk together sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Place meatballs and pineapple in skillet/crockpot. Pour glaze over.
- Simmer 10–15 minutes stovetop, or 1–2 hours in crockpot until coated.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry if thicker glaze desired.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice.
📝 Notes
- Make-ahead: prep meatballs & glaze, cook later.
- Substitutions: turkey or chicken meatballs work great.
- Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
🍽️ Nutrition
Serving size: 1 cup 🍴
Calories: 280
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 3g
Carbs: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 14g
Conclusion
Hawaiian Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze are more than just a recipe they’re a memory, a comfort, and a way to bring people together. Every time I make them, I feel that familiar joy of sharing something simple yet extraordinary with loved ones. From the sticky sweetness to the gentle heat and tender meatballs, this dish warms the heart and the kitchen. I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own happy memories and gather around the table with smiles, stories, and full bellies.