Hawaiian meatballs are a fun twist on the classic dish! They’re made with juicy beef and flavored with sweet pineapple and soy sauce. These meatballs are both sweet and savory, making them hard to resist!
When I make these, I can’t help but picture a beach party. They’re great as a snack or served over rice. Plus, who doesn’t love the taste of a Hawaiian vacation right in their kitchen? 🌺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for its great flavor and texture. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken work well too. Just be aware that they may be a bit drier, so you might need to adjust cooking times.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is super tasty, but canned works just as well. If you’re looking to cut sugar, you could use unsweetened juice or even coconut water for a different twist.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are perfect for binding, but you can also use crushed crackers or rolled oats. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch! If you can’t find them, chives or even diced bell peppers can work as a substitute. I love the extra color they bring to the dish.
How Do You Make Tender Meatballs?
The key to tender meatballs starts with the mix. Make sure not to overwork the meat when combining ingredients; this keeps them from getting tough. Here’s how to get it right:
- Combine all ingredients gently in a bowl.
- Use a small scoop or your hands to shape them lightly into balls—about 1 inch in diameter.
- Keep your oven at the right temperature (375°F) to prevent them from drying out.
Baking them helps retain moisture, and don’t forget to let them rest for a minute before serving to allow the juices to settle.
How to Make Hawaiian Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
Toppings/Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions (scallions)
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook perfectly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have space to cook evenly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, get started on the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup. Stir over medium heat until well mixed.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors blend together.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens, which should take about 1-2 minutes. If you’re using pineapple chunks, add them to the sauce and cook for another minute.
8. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once your meatballs are ready, transfer them carefully into the saucepan with the sauce. Stir gently to make sure each meatball is coated evenly with the delicious sauce.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the Hawaiian meatballs over steamed white rice or as a tasty appetizer. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra pop of flavor and color!
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the beautiful islands of Hawaii!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lovely lean option that works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it can be drier, so consider adding a bit more milk or even some grated vegetables like zucchini for extra moisture.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. For reheating, just warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of sauce to keep them juicy!
What Can I Serve With Hawaiian Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious over steamed white rice, but they also pair well with noodles, cauliflower rice, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option. Serve with some extra pineapple or veggies for added crunch and flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. You could also incorporate minced jalapeños into the meat mixture for an extra kick. Just adjust to your taste preference!
