Go Back
Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors that reflect the rich culinary traditions of both Asian and Western cuisines. This dish traces its roots to the classic teriyaki sauce, which originated in Japan. Teriyaki, meaning "to grill" or "to broil," traditionally involves marinating food in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar, and then cooking it to achieve a glossy finish. The addition of pineapple introduces a refreshing twist, making these meatballs not just a meal but an experience that resonates with many cultures around the globe.

Juicy Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

Discover the delicious fusion of savory and sweet with Juicy Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs! This delightful dish blends classic teriyaki flavors with fresh pineapple, creating a vibrant and mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion. Made with quality ground meat and aromatic spices, these meatballs are versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. Explore easy cooking techniques and tips to elevate your dish, making it a hit at your next gathering!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)

1 large egg

¼ cup finely chopped fresh pineapple

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt

2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

¼ cup soy sauce

¼ cup brown sugar

2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tbsp cornstarch

2 tbsp water

1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

1 tsp fresh pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.

    Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, egg, chopped pineapple, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned.

          Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and fresh pineapple juice in a saucepan over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then gradually whisk it into the sauce.

            Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

              Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Gently toss to coat all the meatballs evenly.

                Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish. Serve warm with steamed rice or on skewers for a fun appetizer.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | 4 servings