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Meatballs have earned their place as a beloved dish across various cuisines worldwide, from the classic Italian and Swedish varieties to the Middle Eastern kofta. Their adaptability and hearty nature make them a popular choice for family dinners, potlucks, and even meal prep. Today, we are taking a delightful twist on the traditional meatball by introducing Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs. This recipe combines the savory appeal of meatballs with the sweet and tangy notes of teriyaki sauce and the refreshing burst of pineapple, creating a dish that is both satisfying and unique.

Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs

Elevate your dinner game with these Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs! Combining the savory goodness of ground chicken or turkey with sweet, tangy teriyaki sauce and fresh pineapple, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests. They’re easy to make and can be served with rice, in wraps, or on their own. Packed with flavor and nutrients, these meatballs are a healthier twist on a classic dish that your family will love!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken or turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh or from canned pineapple)

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken (or turkey), breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.

          Make the Teriyaki Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.

            Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce begins to simmer, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.

              Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the saucepan with the teriyaki sauce. Toss until the meatballs are evenly coated.

                Serve: Serve the teriyaki pineapple meatballs over a bed of rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh diced pineapple, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

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