Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup (25g) chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 (20 ounce/567g) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 cup (240ml) barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 2.5 cm).
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning frequently, until browned on all sides.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together crushed pineapple (with juice), barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Place the browned meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the pineapple barbecue sauce over the meatballs.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pineapple Barbecue Meatballs!