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In the world of culinary delights, few combinations are as enticing as the sweet and savory profile of teriyaki sauce paired with juicy meatballs. This Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs recipe is a perfect example of how diverse flavors can come together to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to please the entire family. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to impress guests, these meatballs deliver both in taste and presentation.

Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs

Discover a delightful fusion of sweet and savory with Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs. This easy recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich teriyaki sauce and fresh pineapple, creating a dish that pleases any palate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, these meatballs offer versatility—serve them as appetizers, over rice, or in salads. Enjoy the health benefits of fresh ingredients while indulging in a unique culinary experience that celebrates Japanese flavors.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a healthier alternative)

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

1 large egg

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

1/2 cup pineapple juice (preferably from fresh diced pineapple)

For Serving:

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

Cooked rice or quinoa

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Additional chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the meatballs don’t stick.

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, chopped cilantro (if using), egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended.

      Form the Meatballs: With clean hands, take portions of the meat mixture and roll them into bite-sized meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked, turning them halfway through the cooking time for uniform browning.

          Make the Teriyaki Sauce: While the meatballs bake, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, pineapple juice, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved.

            Thicken the Sauce: Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture while whisking continuously. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency. Remove from heat.

              Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them into the saucepan with the teriyaki sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are generously coated.

                Serve: Serve your teriyaki pineapple meatballs over a bed of fluffy cooked rice or quinoa. Top generously with fresh pineapple chunks. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions for added flavor and garnish.

                  Enjoy: Dive into your delightful Juicy Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs and relish the harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors with every bite!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4