Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground pork for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) pineapple chunks, drained and juice reserved
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Blend Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook
- Layer the Crockpot: Grease the bottom of your slow cooker with a little olive oil or non-stick spray. Arrange half of the meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour half of the sauce over the meatballs.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Layer the remaining meatballs on top of the first layer and pour the remaining sauce over them.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the slow cooker and serve immediately with rice, noodles, or as a standalone appetizer.
Notes
Choose the Right Meat: Ground beef works well for a richer flavor, but ground pork is leaner and can be a healthier option. You can also mix both for a balanced flavor.
Use Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh minced garlic and ginger instead of the powders. It adds a fresher, more vibrant taste.
Adjust Spices to Taste: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes. For a milder version, omit them entirely.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Simply add them to the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook while you’re at work.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 273 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.003g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 86mg