Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Costco Pineapple Meatball recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the juicy sweetness of pineapple with savory meatballs for a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a fancy appetizer. Forget takeout – homemade deliciousness is just a few simple steps away! This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry, making it the ultimate in easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 (2-pound) bag frozen meatballs (Costco's Kirkland Signature brand is recommended, but any brand will work)
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce (found in most grocery stores, often near the Asian food section)
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (fresh or ground)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatballs are heated thoroughly and the sauce simmers beautifully.
Making the Sauce:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and grated ginger. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent any lumps in your delicious sauce.
Combining and Baking:
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Add the drained pineapple chunks and frozen meatballs to the sauce. Gently toss everything until the meatballs are evenly coated. This step is crucial for even flavor distribution throughout your dish.
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Pour the mixture into a large baking dish (a 9x13 inch dish works perfectly).
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. You can stir halfway through cooking for even browning and sauce distribution.
Serving:
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Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired.
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Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. These meatballs are also fantastic on their own as an appetizer or snack.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different types of meatballs – turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options work well.
- Extra Pineapple: If you love pineapple, add an extra can!
- Different Sauce: Substitute teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It is best to consult a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Costco Pineapple Meatballs recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of sweet and savory is truly addictive, making it a guaranteed family favorite. Enjoy! This delicious and easy recipe makes for a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest.