Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe

Indulge in the delightful fusion of tangy pineapples, juicy meatballs, and smoky hot dogs in this slow cooker meatball pineapple smokies recipe. An effortless comfort food that's perfect for any occasion, its sweet and savory flavors will surely tickle your taste buds.

Photos of Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe

The core ingredients for this recipe are apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, frozen beef meatballs, mini beef smokies hot dogs, and pineapple chunks. While most of these ingredients are easily available, you might need to check the frozen foods section for the beef meatballs and smokies. If apricot preserves are not readily available, you can substitute it with any sweet fruity jam of your choice.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Apricot preserves: A sweet and tangy base for the sauce that adds a fruity flavor.

Barbecue sauce: Gives the dish its sweet and tangy flavor.

Frozen beef meatballs: Convenient and ready to use, these add a hearty meaty taste.

Mini beef smokies hot dogs: These add a smoky and savory flavor.

Pineapple chunks: Adds a tropical twist and sweetness to the dish.

One reader, Carlotta Chao says:

This slow cooker meatball pineapple smokies recipe is a game-changer! The combination of apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, and pineapple creates a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the meatballs and smokies. It's a hit at parties and always leaves everyone asking for the recipe. Highly recommended!

Carlotta Chao

Techniques Required for Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe

How to mix the apricot preserves and barbecue sauce: In a bowl, combine the apricot preserves and barbecue sauce until well mixed. This will create a sweet and tangy base for the meatball and smokies dish.

How to add in the meatballs and smokies: Place the frozen beef meatballs and mini beef smokies hot dogs into the slow cooker with the sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the sauce.

How to stir in pineapple chunks: Gently fold in the pineapple chunks into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed among the meatballs and smokies. This will add a delightful sweetness and tropical flavor to the dish.

How To Make Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Sweet and savory, this slow cooker meatball is made with beef smokies and meatballs cooked with apricot preserves and barbecue sauce.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours 20 minutes

Total: 3 hours 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Mix the apricot preserves and barbecue sauce together in the slow cooker.

1. Add in the meatballs and smokies and stir well to coat.

1. Cook on High for 2 to 3 hours.

1. Stir in pineapple chunks, cover, and continue cooking on high heat for 20 minutes.

Nutrition

- Calories: 267.88kcal

- Fat: 12.37g

- Saturated Fat: 4.62g

- Trans Fat: 0.67g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.43g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.41g

- Carbohydrates: 29.32g

- Fiber: 0.80g

- Sugar: 21.63g

- Protein: 10.62g

- Cholesterol: 41.66mg

- Sodium: 344.68mg

- Calcium: 28.22mg

- Potassium: 274.99mg

- Iron: 1.51mg

- Vitamin A: 8.91µg

- Vitamin C: 18.97mg

Technique Tip for Making Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

To ensure that your meatballs and smokies are evenly coated in the apricot preserves and barbecue sauce mixture, it's best to add them in batches. Add a handful, stir to coat, then repeat until all are added. This method prevents clumping and ensures that every piece is well covered in the sauce. Additionally, when adding the pineapple chunks, be sure to drain them first to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Prep ahead: Prepare the apricot preserves and barbecue sauce mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-made meatballs: Opt for store-bought frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch to cut down on prep time.

Crockpot liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup, saving time on washing the slow cooker.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe

apricot preserves - Substitute with peach preserves: Peach preserves can provide a similar sweet and fruity flavor to the dish, complementing the meatballs and smokies.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce offers a rich, sweet, and savory flavor profile that can add depth to the dish, similar to barbecue sauce.
frozen beef meatballs - Substitute with frozen turkey meatballs: Turkey meatballs can be a leaner alternative to beef, offering a lighter option while still providing the meaty texture.
mini beef smokies hot dogs - Substitute with mini pork smokies hot dogs: Pork smokies can offer a slightly different flavor profile while still maintaining the bite-sized, savory element in the dish.
pineapple chunks - Substitute with mango chunks: Mango can provide a sweet and tropical flavor similar to pineapple, adding a refreshing twist to the dish.

Best Way to Present Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Elevate the plating: Arrange the meatballs and smokies in an artful and visually appealing manner on the serving platter, creating an inviting display for the diners.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with sprigs of fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Utilize contrasting textures: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions to provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall texture of the dish.
Create a balanced composition: Arrange the pineapple chunks strategically around the meatballs and smokies to create a visually balanced and harmonious presentation.
Opt for elegant serving ware: Select sophisticated serving platters or dishes that complement the colors and textures of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be helpful for preparing various components of a recipe, such as mixing dough, blending sauces, or chopping vegetables.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various components of a recipe. It comes in different sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or plastic, and is suitable for mixing both wet and dry ingredients.

How To Store and Freeze Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Allow the meatballs, smokies, and pineapple to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the leftovers:
- Divide the cooled mixture into smaller portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen meatballs and smokies:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed mixture to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Heat the mixture over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
- If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a small amount of water or barbecue sauce to achieve the desired consistency.
Note that the texture of the pineapple may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor of the dish should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover meatballs, smokies, and pineapple chunks to an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs and smokies are heated through. This method helps to maintain the texture and moisture of the dish, while ensuring that everything is evenly reheated.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the meatballs and smokies are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatballs and smokies to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a bit more time, you can reheat the leftovers on the stovetop. Transfer the meatballs, smokies, and pineapple chunks to a saucepan, and add a splash of water or barbecue sauce to help keep everything moist. Heat the pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs and smokies are heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature more easily and ensures that the flavors of the dish are well-incorporated.
For a tasty twist, try repurposing your leftovers into a new dish. Slice the meatballs and smokies, and combine them with the pineapple chunks and some fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry the mixture in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles for a quick and delicious meal that breathes new life into your leftovers.

Random Fact About Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Apricot preserves are a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They add a unique flavor to the slow cooker meatball pineapple smokies recipe, creating a delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors.

Is Making Meatball Pineapple Smokies Economical for Home Cooking?

This slow cooker meatball pineapple smokies recipe offers a cost-effective option for a household. The use of frozen meatballs and smokies makes it a budget-friendly choice. The addition of apricot preserves and barbecue sauce enhances the flavor profile, adding value to the dish. The incorporation of pineapple chunks introduces a refreshing element. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical choice. Overall, this recipe receives a solid 8/10 rating for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Slow Cooker Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, frozen meatballs, smokies, and pineapple chunks - are all high in sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. The meatballs and smokies are processed meats, which have been linked to increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Additionally, the recipe lacks any significant source of vegetables or whole grains, which are essential for a balanced diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use low-sugar apricot preserves and a reduced-sugar barbecue sauce to cut down on added sugars
Opt for lean, homemade meatballs using ground turkey or chicken instead of frozen beef meatballs
Replace the smokies with a leaner protein source, such as chicken sausage or tofu
Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and carrots to increase the nutrient content
Serve the dish over a bed of brown rice or quinoa to incorporate whole grains
Use fresh pineapple instead of canned to reduce the sugar content and add more fiber

Editor's Thoughts on This Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker meatball pineapple smokies recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The apricot preserves and barbecue sauce create a luscious glaze for the meatballs and smokies, while the addition of pineapple adds a refreshing tropical twist. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and tender dish that is perfect for entertaining or a family gathering. The balance of flavors and textures makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser, and the convenience of using a slow cooker makes it a practical choice for busy cooks.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus with a balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Colorful fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Alternative Recipes Similar to Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies

Savory Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap asparagus spears in bacon and bake until crispy for a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: Marinate salmon in a honey garlic glaze and bake until flaky for a sweet and savory seafood dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, and cilantro for a refreshing and flavorful salsa to serve with chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer tomatoes, onions, and garlic with broth and cream, then blend until smooth for a comforting and creamy soup.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Toss sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar, then top with a crispy oat topping and bake until golden brown for a warm and comforting dessert.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With This Recipe

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a mouthwatering grilled salmon dish with a zesty lemon and herb marinade, served with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Impress your guests with delicious stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, quinoa, and a blend of Mediterranean spices, topped with melted cheese for a satisfying and wholesome dinner option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge your guests with a decadent and rich chocolate lava cake. The warm, gooey center paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is sure to impress even the most discerning dessert connoisseur.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Elevate your dessert game with a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries on a buttery graham cracker crust is a timeless crowd-pleaser.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the savory essence of meatballs and smokies with the sweetness of apricot preserves and pineapple chunks. The harmonious blend of barbecue sauce adds depth to the dish, promising a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering creation that will elevate your culinary repertoire.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let us know if you've tried this tasty dish or have any tips to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I substitute the apricot preserves with another fruit preserve?

Absolutely! You can substitute the apricot preserves with peach, mango, or even orange preserves for a different flavor profile.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple chunks?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple chunks. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it later. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it in the slow cooker or microwave when you're ready to serve.

Can I use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef meatballs?

Absolutely! You can use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef meatballs to suit your dietary preferences or taste preferences.