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These meatballs are easy to make and full of flavor. Here are the main items you need: - 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter dish) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko gives a great crunch) - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish) - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon ginger powder - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained (keep juice) - 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish) You can switch out some ingredients for your taste or needs. Ground turkey is a great choice if you want less fat. If you can't find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too. You can even use ground chicken or pork. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs and soy sauce. Garnishes add a nice touch. Extra green onions and sesame seeds give a pop of color and flavor. You can also serve the meatballs with pineapple slices around them. For a full meal, pair them with steamed rice or a fresh Asian slaw. Enjoy your tasty dish! {{ingredient_image_2}} To make the meatballs, start by mixing the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine: - 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey) - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions - 1 large beaten egg - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon ginger powder - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Use your hands or a spatula to mix until everything is well blended. You want a smooth and sticky mixture. Next, form the meatballs. With clean hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch wide. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between each meatball, so they cook evenly. Now, it's time to bake the meatballs. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for a nice brown color. Once the oven is hot, bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. They are ready when they turn brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F for beef or turkey. While the meatballs bake, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the reserved pineapple juice, 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Whisk the mixture continuously. This will help the sauce thicken in about 2 to 3 minutes. After that, stir in the crushed pineapple into the thickened sauce. Mix well and let it simmer gently for another minute to blend the flavors nicely. Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven. Transfer them to a large bowl and pour the pineapple teriyaki sauce over them. Toss gently until all the meatballs are coated in the sweet and tangy glaze. Serve the meatballs beautifully on a platter. You can sprinkle sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy this tasty dish! To get the best texture, use panko breadcrumbs. They offer a nice crunch. Mix the meat and other ingredients well. If you see any dry spots, keep mixing. This helps the meatballs hold together. Adding crushed pineapple keeps them moist and adds sweetness. Make sure to space the meatballs on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Check for a nice brown color. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F. This step keeps them juicy and safe to eat. For a fun look, serve meatballs on a platter. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top. You can also add pineapple slices around the edge. This gives a fresh, tropical vibe. Pair with steamed rice or a simple slaw for balance. Enjoy your colorful and tasty dish! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh ground meat and fresh green onions. They enhance the overall taste and texture of your meatballs. Experiment with Meat Types: Don't hesitate to try different types of ground meat such as chicken or pork. Each will give a unique flavor to your teriyaki meatballs. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a little honey or brown sugar to the teriyaki sauce mixture to suit your taste. Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just bake and glaze them when you're ready to serve for a quick meal option. {{image_4}} You can switch the meat to fit your diet. For a vegan option, use lentils or chickpeas. You can also use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter choice. Both options still taste great with the teriyaki sauce. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you use chicken or turkey. While the classic teriyaki sauce is tasty, feel free to get creative. You can add sriracha to make a spicy teriyaki sauce. Or mix in honey and garlic for a sweet garlic sauce. Both options will give your meatballs a different flavor. Don't hesitate to experiment until you find your favorite! These meatballs are great with many sides. Serve them over steamed rice for a filling meal. If you prefer something lighter, try veggie noodles. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or Asian slaw. Each side can change the taste and feel of your dish. Enjoy mixing and matching! After you enjoy your Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the container is sealed tight to keep the meatballs fresh and tasty. You can freeze these meatballs for a quick meal later. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for about three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat the meatballs, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. In the microwave, heat them on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check if they are hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your tasty meatballs again! Yes, you can make Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs and bake them. Once cooked, let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, just reheat them in the oven or microwave. You can also make the sauce ahead. Just mix the sauce and meatballs when you are ready to eat. If you need a substitute for teriyaki sauce, you have options. You can mix soy sauce with honey or brown sugar. This mix gives a sweet and salty flavor. Alternatively, use a sweet chili sauce for a different taste. You can also try a homemade sauce with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. To make Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. There are many brands available now. Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce, often called tamari. Check the teriyaki sauce label for gluten content too. Many brands offer gluten-free options. Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs pair well with several side dishes. Here are some ideas: - Steamed jasmine rice - Fried rice with veggies - Asian slaw for crunch - Sautéed green beans or broccoli - Quinoa for a healthy twist These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors of the meatballs. Pineapple teriyaki meatballs are a tasty dish. We explored key ingredients and fun substitutes. You can use different proteins and sauces to fit your taste. Baking tips help ensure the right texture, while storage info keeps leftovers fresh. Don't forget the garnishes for a nice final touch. Making this dish can be easy and fun. I hope you enjoy trying these meatballs as much as I do!

Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

Delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and savory pineapple teriyaki sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained
  • 0.25 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, beaten egg, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spatula, mix until everything is well incorporated and you have a cohesive mixture.
  • With clean hands, roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange the meatballs neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. They should be nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F for beef or turkey).
  • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a saucepan set over medium heat, combine the reserved pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, and cornstarch. Whisk continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the crushed pineapple into the thickened sauce, mixing well to ensure it is heated through. Let it simmer gently for another minute to meld the flavors.
  • Once the meatballs are finished baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Gently pour the pineapple teriyaki sauce over the meatballs and toss gently until they are thoroughly coated in the delicious glaze.
  • Serve the meatballs on a decorative platter, sprinkling sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh and vibrant touch.

Notes

Serve with steamed rice or an Asian slaw for a complete meal.
Keyword easy recipe, meatballs, pineapple, teriyaki