Hawaii Hamburger
Sweet and savory Hawaiian-inspired meatballs with pineapple chunks, tenderized in a tangy sauce, perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine evaporated milk, chopped onions, cracker crumbs, and hamburger meat in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into balls with a pineapple chunk inside each.
- Brown the meatballs in a small amount of oil in a large skillet.
- Drain the pineapple chunks and save the syrup.
- Add water to the syrup to make 1 cup.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger meat for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños to the mixture. To keep the meatballs moist, don't overwork the meat when forming them. Ensure the oil is hot enough before browning to achieve a nice crust. For a side, try serving with a fresh salad like Rocky'S Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hawaii Hamburger meatballs with a side of rice or coleslaw to complement the sweet and savory flavors. Consider pairing them with a tropical fruit salad or grilled vegetables for a colorful plate. For a complete meal, try them alongside Pork Chop And Cabbage Dinner for a delightful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them until heated through. Adding a splash of the reserved pineapple syrup can help keep them moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaii Hamburger contains roughly 304 calories, with 5g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple chunks if you prefer. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. You can also blend the fresh pineapple to create a sauce or topping for the meatballs, enhancing the dish's tropical essence.
What can I substitute for evaporated milk?
If you don’t have evaporated milk, you can make your own by simmering regular milk to reduce it by about half. Alternatively, use a combination of whole milk and cream or even almond milk for a dairy-free option, though this may alter the flavor slightly.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, check that they have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, cut one open to see if there’s no pink meat and the juices run clear. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the meatballs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).