What makes Hawaii meatloaf different from traditional meatloaf?

Hawaii meatloaf stands out for its sweet and savory flavor profile. Unlike traditional meatloaf that uses ketchup or tomato-based sauces, this version includes crushed pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar in both the mix and glaze, giving it a tropical twist and sticky caramelized finish.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh pineapple, but make sure to include some juice for moisture. Canned crushed pineapple is preferred for ease and consistency, especially in the glaze, as it provides the right balance of sweetness and acidity.

How do I keep Hawaii meatloaf from falling apart?

To keep your meatloaf intact, use the right ratio of binder ingredients like breadcrumbs and eggs. Avoid overmixing, which can break down the texture. Letting it rest after baking also helps it firm up before slicing.

Can I make Hawaii meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can mix and shape the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, simply glaze and bake. You can also freeze an uncooked loaf and bake it straight from frozen-just add 15–20 minutes to the bake time.

Hawaii Meatloaf Recipe: Sweet and Savory

Description

This hawaii meatloaf recipe blends classic comfort with tropical flavor. Juicy ground beef mixed with crushed pineapple, soy sauce, and aromatic seasonings delivers a deliciously sweet and savory meatloaf with an island-style glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ lbs ground beef (or mix with ½ lb ground pork)
1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
¼ cup finely chopped green onions
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
¼ cup ketchup
2 tbsp pineapple juice (reserved from can)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment.
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, crushed pineapple (with juice), breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Shape mixture into a loaf and place in pan.
Stir glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
Brush half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F.
In the last 10 minutes, brush remaining glaze on top.
Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Reserve extra glaze for serving, if desired.
This meatloaf is excellent with coconut rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled pineapple.
To prepare ahead, mix and shape the loaf and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 90mg