Hospitality Pineapple Meatballs

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Sweet and savory pineapple meatballs feature juicy pineapple tidbits and seasoned beef, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners with a flavorful, tangy profile.

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Ingredients

  • 8 3/4 oz. can pineapple tidbits
  • 3 slices bread
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp. onion salt
  • 3 Tbsp. butter or margarine
  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • 3/4 cup beef broth
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp. catsup
  • 2 tsp. cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Drain pineapple and reserve 1/2 cup juice.
  2. Place pineapple tidbits on paper towels to drain.
  3. Soak bread in a small amount of water; squeeze out excess moisture.
  4. Mix bread, ground beef, eggs, and onion salt until well combined.
  5. Shape mixture into small balls, enclosing a pineapple tidbit in each.
  6. Brown the meatballs slowly in butter and oil, shaking the pan to keep them round and evenly browned.
  7. Drain excess fat from the pan.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use fresh bread instead of stale, as it helps bind the meat mixture better. If you’re out of onion salt, substitute with a mix of garlic powder and regular salt. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more catsup or include a dash of honey. This recipe is versatile; try using ground turkey for a lighter option or incorporating spices like ginger for an Asian twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful meatballs over steamed rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a side of sweet and sour sauce or even a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor. For a hearty option, consider serving them with biscuits or mashed potatoes, which complement the meatballs perfectly.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth to prevent drying out, or microwave them for about 1-2 minutes until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hospitality Pineapple Meatballs contains roughly 808 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 69g fat.

808 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.6g 7% DV
Total Fat 68.6g 88% DV
Carbs 47.1g 17% DV
Fiber 0.4g 2% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 287.2mg 12% DV
Potassium 329.5mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 81.1mg 27% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 47.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 0.9mg 1% DV
Calcium 73.1mg 6% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 a different type of meat for these meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, and you might want to adjust seasonings to enhance flavor in lighter meats.

How can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatballs and shape them a day in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Alternatively, you can bake or fry them and then freeze them for later, reheating them in the oven or skillet when needed.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be great substitutes. Both will provide a different flavor profile but will still keep the meatballs moist and flavorful. For a richer taste, consider using a homemade broth or stock.

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).

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