Go Back
Adam

Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies – Sweet, Savory & Effortless Party Favorite

If you’re looking for a set-it-and-forget-it appetizer that always steals the show, Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies are the answer. This dish combines tender beef or chicken meatballs, juicy pineapple, and flavorful smokie-style sausages in a sweet and savory sauce that simmers slowly to perfection. Every bite delivers a balance of sweetness, tang, and comforting richness that guests can’t stop eating. Perfect for parties, game days, potlucks, or family gatherings, this recipe is incredibly easy and reliable. The slow cooker does all the work while flavors meld together beautifully. Warm, saucy, and irresistibly comforting, these pineapple smokies are guaranteed to keep your guests coming back for more.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Simple ingredients come together for maximum crowd-pleasing flavor.
  • Frozen meatballs fully cooked (beef or chicken only)
  • Beef or chicken smokie-style sausages sliced
  • Pineapple chunks drained
  • Barbecue sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Soy-style seasoning sauce non-alcoholic
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Measuring cups
  • Mixing spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving spoon

Method
 

Step 1: Add the frozen beef or chicken meatballs to the slow cooker.
    Step 2: Add the sliced beef or chicken smokie-style sausages on top of the meatballs.
      Step 3: Scatter the drained pineapple chunks evenly over the meat and sausages.
        Step 4: In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy-style seasoning sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
          Step 5: Pour the sauce evenly over everything in the slow cooker.
            Step 6: Gently stir to coat all ingredients without breaking the meatballs.
              Step 7: Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 1½–2 hours, stirring once if possible.
                Step 8: Once hot and glossy, switch the slow cooker to warm and serve directly.

                  Notes

                  🧊 Storage & Reheating
                  Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
                  Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months.
                  Reheating: Reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop over low heat.
                  🥄 Variations
                  Easy ways to customize while keeping the sweet-and-savory magic:
                  Extra Sweet: Add more pineapple or a touch more brown sugar.
                  Mild Heat: Add a small pinch of chili flakes.
                  Tangy Version: Use a tangy-style barbecue sauce.
                  Appetizer Style: Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
                  Dinner Option: Serve over rice for a complete meal.
                  ❓ 10 FAQs
                  What meatballs should I use?
                  Fully cooked beef or chicken meatballs only.
                  Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?
                  No, frozen works perfectly.
                  Are smokies pork-based?
                  This recipe uses beef or chicken smokies only.
                  Is this dish very sweet?
                  Balanced sweet and savory.
                  Can I make it ahead of time?
                  Yes, it reheats very well.
                  Is this kid-friendly?
                  Absolutely—mild and comforting.
                  Can I double the recipe?
                  Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough.
                  Does the sauce thicken?
                  Yes, it becomes glossy as it cooks.
                  Can I cook it longer on low?
                  Yes, up to 5 hours without issues.
                  Is this good for parties?
                  It’s one of the best slow cooker party foods.
                  🏁 Conclusion
                  These Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies are everything a party dish should be—easy, comforting, sweet, and completely addictive. With minimal prep and big flavor payoff, they’re perfect for stress-free entertaining and guaranteed crowd approval. Keep this recipe handy, because once you serve it, people will ask for it again and again.