Sweet And Sour Hawaiian Meatballs
Sweet and tangy Hawaiian meatballs with pineapple, ketchup, and brown sugar create a flavorful dish perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the dry spaghetti sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, mustard, Coke, and pineapple juice to create the wet mixture.
- Take 1/4 cup of the wet liquid and set aside.
- Pour the remaining mixture into a large pot and bring to a simmer on the stove.
- In a mixing bowl, combine hamburger, breadcrumbs, eggs, and salt to form the meat mixture.
- Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs and add them to the simmering sauce.
- Add the pineapple chunks to the pot.
- Cover and cook until the meatballs are fully cooked and flavors meld, about 25-30 minutes.
- Serve hot, spooning the sauce and pineapple over the meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic and chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving them as appetizers with toothpicks for a party setting.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Hawaiian Meatballs contains roughly 680 calories, with 12g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger for this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey can be a healthier alternative to hamburger. Just be aware that turkey may yield a slightly different texture and flavor, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or moisture to compensate.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. You could also use a spicy ketchup or add a dash of hot sauce to the wet mixture for an extra kick.
What can I do with any leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled chicken or pork. You can also use it as a marinade or mix it into stir-fried vegetables for added flavor. Just be sure to store it separately from the meatballs for optimal freshness.
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).