Mesquite Pineapple Meatballs

Nothing says cozy home cooking like a delicious batch of meatballs simmering in a flavorful sauce. If you’re looking to add a unique twist to your classic meatball recipe, then you’re in for a treat with our Mesquite Pineapple Meatballs. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of mesquite with the sweetness of pineapple to create a mouthwatering dish that will have your family and guests coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how to make these flavorful meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.

**Mesquite Pineapple Meatballs**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp pepper
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp mesquite seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine the pineapple chunks (with juice), ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and mesquite seasoning. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
6. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs to the skillet and pour the pineapple sauce over them. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are coated evenly.
7. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Once the meatballs are coated and heated through, remove them from the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
9. Serve the Mesquite Pineapple Meatballs hot over rice or noodles, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

These Mesquite Pineapple Meatballs are a delightful combination of savory and sweet, making them a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The smoky flavor of the mesquite seasoning combined with the tropical sweetness of pineapple creates a flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds. Plus, the ease of preparation makes this recipe a go-to option for any busy weeknight. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.