Dinner

Pineapple-Glazed Meatballs

Name: Pineapple-Glazed Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup onion, finely minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning); 1 cup pineapple juice; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp soy sauce (for glaze); 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water; 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional)

ByMariem November 25, 2025

Jump to Recipe

These pineapple-glazed meatballs are tender, savoury, and lightly sweet, served with juicy pineapple pieces and fluffy rice for a balanced and satisfying meal. The combination of caramelised meatballs and a glossy fruit-infused sauce creates a harmonious dish suitable for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe provides a polished, flavourful meal with minimal effort. The meatballs cook to a golden finish while the pineapple glaze adds brightness and a subtle sweetness that complements the savoury base. This dish is versatile, family-friendly, and easy to prepare in advance. It offers an appealing contrast of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and refined.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground chicken or turkey
bread crumbs
egg
garlic
onion
parsley
salt
pepper
olive oil

For the glaze:
pineapple chunks
pineapple juice
soy sauce
brown sugar
rice vinegar
garlic
cornstarch

Serve with:
steamed rice
fresh parsley or coriander

Directions

In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Mix until just combined, then form into evenly sized meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the meatballs on all sides until golden.
Remove the meatballs and set aside.
In the same pan, add pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic. Stir to combine.
Simmer gently, then whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce.
Return the meatballs to the pan and coat them in the sauce.
Add pineapple chunks and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and the glaze is glossy.
Serve with steamed rice and garnish with parsley or coriander.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes

Variations

– Replace the poultry with ground beef or pork.
– Add bell peppers or carrots for additional colour and texture.
– Use fresh ginger in the glaze for a sharper, aromatic flavour.
– Serve with quinoa or noodles instead of rice.
– Add a small amount of chilli sauce for gentle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice to loosen the sauce.
The meatballs may be frozen before or after cooking; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-searing them?

Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes. Use canned pineapple in juice and reserve the liquid for the glaze.

Why did my meatballs turn out dry?

Overmixing or overcooking can dry the meat. Mix gently and simmer only until cooked.

Can I make the glaze without sugar?

Reducing or omitting the sugar is possible, though it changes the balance of flavours.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes. Shape and refrigerate the meatballs for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Should I cover the pan when simmering?

Covering is optional; leaving it uncovered helps the glaze thicken more quickly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or simple salads complement the flavours well.

How can I increase the savoury depth of the glaze?

Add a small amount of Worcestershire sauce or sesame oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Ensure the meatballs are cooked in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

These pineapple-glazed meatballs offer a pleasing blend of savoury richness and bright sweetness, producing a complete and well-rounded meal. With simple preparation and versatile serving options, they are suitable for family dinners, casual hosting, or meal preparation. This recipe ensures tender meatballs and a refined glaze with dependable results every time.

Mariem