- October 14, 2025
- Main Dishes
Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
These Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs combine juicy pork meatballs glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki BBQ sauce, and tossed with pineapple for the ultimate bite. Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer with pineapple chunks or make them a main dish over rice for a tropical twist.
These Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and sticky. Juicy pork meatballs get coated in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce infused with pineapple juice and soy sauce, then finished with chunks of pineapple for a tropical bite. Whether you toss them in your slow cooker for an easy appetizer or turn them into a flavorful main dish over rice, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love These Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
- Sweet, savory, and tender: Juicy meatballs coated in a glossy teriyaki glaze with chunks of pineapple for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Versatile and easy to cook: Make them in the crockpot, on the stovetop, or smoked for a flavorful twist that fits any occasion.
- Meal prep and crowd-friendly: Great as a party appetizer or quick weeknight dinner over rice—plus they’re low carb and easy to prep ahead.
Ingredients for Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
You can use your Pork Meatball Recipe as the base for this dish, or substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground beef if you prefer. Each option works beautifully with the tangy-sweet sauce.
You’ll need:
- 2 lbs. Pork Meatballs or frozen meatballs, cooked
- 4 cups Teriyaki BBQ Sauce (use my homemade teriyaki sauce recipe or your favorite store-bought teriyaki sauce)
- 1 can Pineapple Chunks (plus the juice)
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tsp Sesame Seeds, for garnish
- 2 Green Onions, thinly sliced
If you’re making your own meatballs, you prep these ahead of time or make them fresh. Frozen meatballs work really well here, too, if you want the easiest way to whip these up quickly for a crowd.
Cooking Methods
Crockpot Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
For slow cooker recipes, add the meatballs (fresh or frozen) to your slow cooker. Whisk the teriyaki BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar, then pour over the top. Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1–2 hours, until thickened and heated through. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Stovetop Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the sauce mixture and pineapple chunks. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add the meatballs. Cook for 10–15 minutes (longer if frozen), stirring occasionally until the sauce is glossy and coats each piece.
Smoked Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Place the meatballs in a cast-iron pan or foil tray. Mix the sauce and pour it over the top with the pineapple chunks. Smoke for 45–60 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until caramelized and sticky.
Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
- For extra-savory flavor, stir a bit of fresh ginger or coconut aminos into your sauce.
- Avoid tough meatballs by not overmixing your meat mixture.
- Want to thicken the sauce naturally? Mix 1 tablespoon of cold water with 1 teaspoon of arrowroot powder or cornstarch and stir it into the sauce before simmering.
- Don’t forget to garnish! The sesame seeds and green onions add the perfect finishing touch.
Serving Ideas and Garnish Suggestions
These meatballs make a great appetizer served with toothpicks, or a hearty main dish spooned over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Try pairing them with fresh pineapple or even grilled pineapple slices for a beautiful presentation and perfect pairing of sweet and savory flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cold water if the sauce thickens too much. You can also freeze them for later or just thaw and reheat in your slow cooker or air fryer until warmed through.
More Recipes To Try
Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. Pork Meatballs or other frozen meatballs (chicken, turkey or beef work as well)
- 4 cups Teriyaki BBQ Sauce
- 1 can Pineapple Chunks (plus the juice)
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tsp Sesame Seeds garnish
- 2 Green Onions sliced thin, for garnish
Instructions
For the Crockpot
- Place the fresh or frozen meatballs into your slow cooker. Whisk together the teriyaki BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar (if using).
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and add the pineapple chunks. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours (or high for 1–2 hours) until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are heated through. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
For the Stovetop
- In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, combine the teriyaki BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar (if using). Stir in the pineapple chunks and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the fresh or frozen meatballs and toss to coat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 10–15 minutes (longer if frozen), stirring occasionally, until the sauce is glossy and the meatballs are evenly glazed. Finish with sesame seeds and green onions.
For the Smoker
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Place the cooked or partially cooked meatballs in a cast iron pan or foil tray. In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Pour over the meatballs, add the pineapple chunks, and smoke for 45–60 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the sauce is sticky and caramelized. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.