Sweet & Tangy Pineapple Meatloaf That Will Win Everyone Over

Name: Sweet & Tangy Pineapple Meatloaf That Will Win Everyone Over
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (15 mL); 1/2 cup chopped onion (75 g); 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (75 g); 1/2 cup chopped celery (50 g); 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained (227 g); 1/2 cup ketchup (120 mL); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (15 mL); 1 teaspoon salt (5 g); 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (2 g); 1 pound ground pork (450 g); 1 pound ground beef (450 g); 1 cup bread crumbs (115 g); 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (100 g); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8 g); 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained (227 g); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 mL); 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (15 mL)

Posted on September 23, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

Uncategorized

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a meatloaf that breaks tradition in the best possible way, this Pineapple Meatloaf is about to become your new favorite. With a juicy texture, tropical flavor profile, and a glaze that’s equal parts sweet and tangy, it’s the ultimate twist on a comforting classic.

This recipe is perfect for families who love bold flavor combinations or anyone wanting to shake up their regular dinner routine. It’s also incredibly versatile, pairing well with simple roasted vegetables or more indulgent sides like cheesy mashed potato puffs. Plus, it stores well, making it an ideal option for leftovers or meal prep.

What Is Pineapple Meatloaf?

Pineapple Meatloaf blends the hearty base of a traditional meatloaf with the vibrant, sweet acidity of crushed pineapple. It’s often associated with Hawaiian Meatloaf due to the tropical inspiration and is especially known for its luscious pineapple glaze.

The result is a moist, tender loaf that surprises your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re serving it alongside garlic butter corn with melty cheese or a fresh cucumber dill salad, this dish transforms any meal into a flavorful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Pineapple Meatloaf, here’s everything you’ll need for 6 servings:

For the Meatloaf:

1 tablespoon butter
½ cup finely chopped onion
½ cup chopped green bell pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1 pound ground pork
1 pound ground beef
¾ cup milk
2 large eggs
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup dry breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Pineapple Glaze:

¾ cup ketchup
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until soft (around 5 minutes). Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, milk, eggs, drained pineapple, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and the cooked vegetables. Mix with your hands or a spatula until evenly combined. Don’t overmix, or the meatloaf could become dense.

Step 4: Shape and Bake
Form the meat into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Bake for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, combine ketchup, brown sugar, crushed pineapple (with juice), and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and pour the glaze evenly on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Let It Rest
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to serve.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Skillet
Loaf pan or baking dish
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Saucepan
Whisk
Cutting board and knife
Meat thermometer (optional)

Pro Tips for Pineapple Meatloaf Success

Drain the pineapple well before mixing to prevent the meatloaf from becoming too wet.
Use a thermometer to avoid under- or overcooking.
Rest the loaf before slicing to keep it intact and juicy.
Make extra glaze to serve on the side as a dipping sauce.
Use fresh breadcrumbs if you prefer a more tender crumb.

For another twist on your usual weeknight meal, consider trying our ground turkey and peppers stir fry for a healthy alternative.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Pineapple Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of comforting sides. Try it with:

Garlicky kale with white beans and lemon
Honey glazed carrots and green beans
Garlic herb roasted potatoes, carrots, and zucchini
Scalloped potatoes for a creamier companion
A slice of cheesy zucchini bread on the side

Add a garnish of chopped parsley or top the loaf with a few pineapple rings before glazing for a visually stunning finish.

How to Store and Reheat Pineapple Meatloaf

Storage:
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

Oven: Place slices in a covered baking dish and heat at 325°F for 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat slices for 1–2 minutes on medium power until warmed through.

Tasty Recipe Variations

BBQ Pineapple Twist: Swap ketchup in the glaze for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor.
All-Beef or All-Turkey Option: Customize the protein to your liking. Ground turkey makes for a lighter version.
Spicy Style: Add minced jalapeños or a spoonful of sweet chili sauce to the mix for heat.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

If you love sweet and savory, you might also enjoy our sticky honey gochujang chicken or sweet chili meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using pineapple with too much juice will make the loaf soggy. Always drain well.
Overmixing the meat mixture will result in a dense, tough texture.
Skipping the thermometer could lead to undercooked or dry meatloaf.
Adding glaze too early might cause it to burn. Apply it during the final bake.

For another comforting dish that’s loaded with flavor and easy to get right, try this keto meatball parmesan casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure it’s very finely chopped and drained of excess juice.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

What’s the best meat substitute for a leaner version?
Ground turkey or chicken works well and still delivers a moist texture.

Is this meatloaf kid-friendly?
Very much so. The touch of sweetness from the pineapple often appeals to kids.

Can I make mini loaves?
Yes, divide the mixture into muffin tins or mini loaf pans and reduce baking time by 15–20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to meatloaf or looking to jazz up your usual dinner routine, this Pineapple Meatloaf delivers bold flavor, amazing texture, and eye-catching presentation. Its sweet pineapple glaze and juicy, tender interior make it a hit with kids and adults alike. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how well it pairs with both light and hearty sides.

Make it part of your regular dinner rotation, or serve it as a tropical surprise at your next gathering. And if you love fruit-forward main dishes, try our apple crisp with oatmeal as a dessert that complements this dish perfectly.

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