Description
These Hawaiian Meatballs are a delightful combination of savory meatballs simmered in a tangy BBQ and pineapple sauce with colorful bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, they are served over rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for an added burst of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs and Sauce
- 25 frozen meatballs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1–2 bell peppers, cut into chunks (red and orange preferred)
- 1 (15-ounce) can pineapple chunks (reserve 2–3 Tablespoons juice)
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
For Serving
- Rice
- Sliced green onion
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet or pan, heat the frozen meatballs over medium heat, following the package instructions until they are fully cooked and heated through. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, combine BBQ sauce, reserved pineapple juice (2-3 tablespoons), and ground ginger (if using) in a small bowl to create the flavorful sauce base.
- Add Vegetables and Pineapple: Add the bell pepper chunks and pineapple chunks (including their juice) to the skillet with the cooked meatballs. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs and vegetables.
- Simmer: Stir everything together to coat the meatballs and vegetables evenly with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the bell peppers become tender but still retain some crunch.
- Serve: Serve the Hawaiian meatballs hot over cooked rice. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds to enhance flavor and add a crunchy texture.
Notes
- You can use homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce depending on preference.
- Bell peppers can be substituted with other vegetables like onions or snap peas depending on availability.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out the meatballs.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
