Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! These teriyaki pineapple meatballs are the perfect solution. They're bursting with sweet and savory flavors, incredibly easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for creating a fantastic homemade meal. This recipe offers a unique twist on classic meatballs, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey (lean ground beef works too!)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Teriyaki Glaze:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. This ensures your meatballs cook evenly and don't stick.
Making the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken (or your preferred meat), crushed pineapple, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them roughly the same size for even cooking.
Baking the Meatballs:
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Preparing the Teriyaki Glaze:
- While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and cornstarch in a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly. This creates a glossy and delicious glaze.
Glazing and Serving:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a bowl and pour the teriyaki glaze over them, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or with your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat. Ground pork or a combination of meats also work well.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of sriracha to the teriyaki glaze.
- Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well!
- Serve these delicious meatballs as an appetizer or snack.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This Teriyaki Pineapple Meatball recipe is a fantastic example of a delicious and healthy dish that’s easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and remember to share your culinary creations! This recipe is perfect for those searching for best recipes and homemade cooking ideas. It's truly one of the most satisfying and simple healthy meals you can prepare.