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If you're searching for a dish that beautifully marries sweet and savory flavors, look no further than Juicy Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs. This delightful recipe combines succulent meatballs with a rich, tangy teriyaki sauce, highlighted by the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple. Whether you're a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to casual gatherings with friends.

Juicy Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

Discover the perfect fusion of sweet and savory with Juicy Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs! This delightful recipe features succulent meatballs coated in a rich teriyaki sauce, enhanced by the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple. Easy to prepare, this dish is ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Packed with flavor and nutritional benefits, it's a meal everyone will love. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce:

1 cup pineapple juice (preferably 100% juice for sweetness)

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

1 clove garlic, minced

For Garnish:

Sesame seeds

Additional chopped green onions

Pineapple chunks (optional, for added freshness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, beaten egg, grated ginger, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix the ingredients gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is well incorporated.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. You should end up with about 20 meatballs.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

          Make the Teriyaki Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice, low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

            Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Once the sauce is simmering, slowly pour in the slurry while constantly whisking. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

              Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are freshly baked, remove them from the oven and carefully transfer them into the saucepan with the teriyaki sauce. Gently stir the meatballs to ensure they are thoroughly coated in the sauce. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.

                Serve: Transfer the juicy pineapple teriyaki meatballs onto a serving platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions for color. For an added fresh touch, include pineapple chunks on the side or on top.

                  Enjoy: Serve these flavorful meatballs hot alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a delightful and fulfilling meal!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4