Easy Spicy Pineapple Meatballs Recipe

These Spicy Pineapple Meatballs are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and spicy, coated in a sticky, bold pineapple chili glaze.

The juicy meatballs are infused with warm spices, then simmered in a tangy pineapple sauce with just the right amount of heat. Perfect as a party appetizer, meal prep option, or weeknight dinner, these meatballs are easy to make and packed with flavor.

Pair them with a refreshing pineapple-lime mocktail to balance the heat and bring out the tropical flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & spicy combo – The perfect balance of heat and tropical sweetness.
• Versatile – Serve as an appetizer, in rice bowls, or in sliders.
• Make-ahead friendly – Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
• Easy stovetop or slow cooker options – Perfect for hands-off cooking.
• Pairs beautifully with tropical mocktails – The pineapple-lime mocktail cools down the spice!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken or turkey (lean but juicy)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for texture)
• 1 egg (helps bind the meatballs)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (adds warmth)
• 1 tsp soy sauce (deepens umami flavor)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle depth)
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tbsp green onions, finely chopped (for freshness)

For the Spicy Pineapple Sauce

• 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar (balances the spice)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (adds tanginess)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (for umami)
• 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to spice preference)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for extra kick)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

Helpful Tool: A cookie scoop makes it easy to form uniform meatballs for even cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, paprika, red pepper flakes, and green onions.
2. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Use a cookie scoop or hands to form 1-inch meatballs.

2. Cook the Meatballs

Stovetop Method (Quick & Crispy)

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Transfer to a plate while making the sauce.

Oven Method (Hands-Off Cooking)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.

Slow Cooker Method (Best for Parties)

1. Brown the meatballs in a skillet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the sauce (see below) and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.

3. Make the Spicy Pineapple Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together pineapple juice, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sriracha, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
4. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and let simmer for 2-3 minutes, coating them well.

Mocktail Pairing: Pineapple Lime Cooler

The refreshing citrus and pineapple flavors of this mocktail balance the heat from the spicy meatballs, creating the perfect tropical pairing.

[Get the full mocktail recipe here!]

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• To Make Ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• To Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground beef or pork will add a richer, more savory flavor, though chicken and turkey absorb the pineapple glaze best.

How do I make this less spicy?
Reduce or omit the sriracha and red pepper flakes, and add extra honey or pineapple juice for a milder sauce.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers as a breadcrumb substitute, and swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

What else can I serve with these meatballs?

• Over steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice.
• In lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• As a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Pineapple Meatballs are a bold, flavorful dish that combines sweet, savory, and heat in every bite. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, they’re sure to be a hit!

Pair them with a Pineapple Lime Cooler for a refreshing contrast, and enjoy a taste of the tropics at home.

For more tropical-inspired recipes, check out these delicious island-inspired dishes!

📌 Save this recipe on Pinterest so you always have a go-to party appetizer ready!