Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, fun, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Costco Teriyaki Pineapple Meatball recipe is a game-changer. It combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory tang of teriyaki sauce, all wrapped up in juicy, flavorful meatballs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (2 lbs) Costco Kirkland Signature Pre-cooked meatballs (or your favorite brand)
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (we love the Kirkland Signature brand!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Assemble & Bake:
- Arrange the pre-cooked meatballs in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the simmered teriyaki sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Add the drained pineapple chunks around and on top of the meatballs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the meatballs are heated through.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
- Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't Overcook: Since you're using pre-cooked meatballs, the goal is to heat them through and let the flavors combine. Overbaking will dry them out.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey. For extra sweetness, add a tablespoon or two more.
- Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Make it a Meal Prep Marvel: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Variations:
- Chicken Meatballs: Substitute pre-cooked chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
- Pork Meatballs: Use pre-cooked pork meatballs for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli florets to the baking dish along with the pineapple.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands of your ingredients. However, a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Around 20-25 grams
- Fat: Around 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
This Costco Teriyaki Pineapple Meatball recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and remember to share your culinary creations!