Description
Juicy, flavorful meatballs coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and ginger. A quick, comforting dinner that’s equal parts fun and delicious!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Optional: chopped bell peppers, pineapple chunks, green onions
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Roll mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, combine pineapple juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry; stir into sauce until thick and glossy.
6. Add browned meatballs to sauce and coat evenly. Cover and simmer 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
7. Optional: Add bell peppers and pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking.
8. Garnish with green onions or cilantro before serving.
Notes
Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste with more brown sugar or vinegar.
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy version.
Use ground pork, chicken, or a beef/pork blend for variation.
Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Keywords: sweet and sour, meatballs, easy dinner, family meal, ginger, pineapple, quick recipe