Hawaiian meatballs are like a tropical vacation for your taste buds. Imagine juicy, tender meatballs bursting with the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple and soy sauce. crispy cheese jalapeno balls The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone asking if they can book a one-way ticket to your dinner table.
Remember those family gatherings where all you wanted was a plate piled high with comfort food? Hawaiian meatballs bring that nostalgic feeling right back. They’re perfect for casual dinners or festive occasions, ensuring every bite is a delightful explosion of flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Hawaiian meatballs are easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Their sweet and savory flavor profile will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Visually, they shine on any table with their vibrant colors and glistening glaze.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve over rice, in sliders, or as party appetizers.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without too much grease; about 1 pound should do.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These light breadcrumbs help keep the meatballs tender and airy while soaking up flavors.
- Egg: Acts as a binder; one large egg is enough to hold everything together beautifully.
- Fresh Pineapple: Diced pineapple adds sweetness and moisture; use fresh for the best flavor.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and bright color contrast.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
- Brown Sugar: This sweetener caramelizes during cooking, giving the sauce its rich taste.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds an aromatic punch without the fuss of peeling fresh garlic.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hawaiian Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup later.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, diced pineapple, and chopped green onions. Don’t be shy—use your hands to mix everything until just combined; overmixing can make them tough.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly; you’ll want about 20 meatballs from this batch.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Arrange the shaped meatballs on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While those tasty morsels are baking away, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until everything dissolves into a sticky glaze—about five minutes should do it.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Once your meatballs are cooked through, transfer them into a large bowl. Pour that luscious sauce over them and gently toss until they’re fully coated. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it—the ultimate Hawaiian meatballs! Serve them over fluffy rice or alongside colorful sides to complete your meal. Enjoy every flavorful bite as you daydream of sandy beaches and warm sunsets!
You Must Know
- These Hawaiian meatballs are not just a dish; they are an experience!
- Packed with sweet pineapple and savory teriyaki flavors, they make any meal feel like a mini vacation.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, they’ll have your guests singing “Aloha” in no time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven while mixing your ingredients. Roll the meatballs and bake them until golden brown. Meanwhile, whip up the sauce in a saucepan to coat those beauties perfectly. This ensures everything is hot, tasty, and ready to serve together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different sauces like sweet chili or even a zesty lime glaze. beef stroganoff recipe Tailor these Hawaiian meatballs to fit your palate!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Hawaiian meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or zap them in the microwave for a quick snack!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Let meatballs rest before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute effectively.
Sometimes I serve these Hawaiian meatballs at parties, and watching everyone gobble them up is pure joy! They always ask for seconds, which makes me feel like a culinary rock star!
FAQs :
What are Hawaiian Meatballs?
Hawaiian meatballs are a delicious fusion dish that combines traditional meatballs with tropical flavors. Typically made from ground meat, such as beef or pork, these meatballs are infused with ingredients like pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger. The result is a sweet and savory flavor profile that transports your taste buds to the islands. They can be served as an appetizer, in a sandwich, or over rice for a complete meal. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe.
How do you serve Hawaiian Meatballs?
You can serve Hawaiian meatballs in various ways. For a delightful appetizer, place them on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, serve them over steamed rice or in a sub sandwich topped with coleslaw. You can also pair them with grilled vegetables or fresh salad for a lighter option. The versatility of these meatballs makes them a favorite for any occasion.
Can I make Hawaiian Meatballs in advance?
Yes! Preparing Hawaiian meatballs in advance is not only possible but also convenient. You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Alternatively, you can cook the meatballs and freeze them in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the oven for an easy meal.
What sides pair well with Hawaiian Meatballs?
Hawaiian meatballs pair beautifully with various side dishes. For a tropical theme, consider serving pineapple rice or coconut jasmine rice to complement the flavors. Fresh salads with citrus dressing or grilled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast. You could also opt for baked sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes to round out the meal and enhance its savory elements.
Conclusion for Hawaiian Meatballs :
In summary, Hawaiian meatballs offer a delightful blend of flavors that brings the essence of Hawaii to your table. Their versatility allows for different serving styles, whether as appetizers or main dishes. Preparing them ahead of time can save you effort during busy days. corn casserole side dish With simple yet vibrant ingredients and various side dish options available, these meatballs are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy creating this tasty dish at home!
Hawaiian Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 meatballs (6 servings) 1x
Description
Hawaiian meatballs are a mouthwatering fusion of savory and sweet, bringing the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your table. Juicy ground beef is combined with fresh pineapple, green onions, and a sticky soy-based glaze, creating a dish that’s perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Easy to prepare and deliciously versatile, these meatballs can be served as appetizers, over rice, or in sliders. Enjoy every flavorful bite while dreaming of sandy beaches!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, pineapple, and green onions. Mix gently until just combined.
- Scoop about two tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls (aim for about 20 meatballs).
- Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- While baking, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder in a small saucepan over medium heat until dissolved into a glaze (about 5 minutes).
- Once cooked, toss meatballs in the glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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