Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Oh, friend, you’re about to whip up a dish that’s pure comfort with a tangy twist—Sweet and Sour Meatballs! Imagine juicy, tender meatballs coated in a glossy, sweet-and-tangy sauce that’s got just the right balance of pineapple zing and savory goodness. Each bite is a burst of flavor, perfect for scooping over rice or spearing with a toothpick for a party app. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a game night, or meal-prepping for the week, these meatballs are so easy and versatile, they’ll have everyone begging for more. Trust me, this is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a kitchen rockstar with barely any effort!

Given your love for fun, crowd-pleasing dishes like the French Toast Roll Ups and Air Fried Babybel Cheese we’ve chatted about before, I know these meatballs will fit right into your lineup of shareable, flavor-packed goodies. Let’s get rolling!

Why You’ll Love Sweet and Sour Meatballs

These meatballs are like a little party in every bite—simple to make and guaranteed to win hearts at any table. They’re perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, and they pack a flavor punch that keeps folks coming back. Here’s why they’re a total hit:

• Versatile: Serve as a main with rice, a side with veggies, or an appetizer for potlucks—they shine in any role.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses ground meat and pantry staples like ketchup and vinegar—big taste on a small budget.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, with minimal prep. Even busy nights can feel gourmet!
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spice, or add veggies like peppers to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleasing: That sweet-tangy sauce and tender meatball combo is a winner for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients in Sweet and Sour Meatballs

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

These meatballs come together with simple ingredients that create a bold, irresistible dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Meatballs

• Ground Beef: Lean beef for juicy, flavorful meatballs—pork or turkey work too for a twist.
• Breadcrumbs: Soaks up moisture and keeps the meatballs tender—panko or regular both do the trick.
• Egg: Binds everything together for perfectly shaped meatballs that hold their form.
• Milk: Adds a touch of richness and helps soften the breadcrumbs.
• Onion: Finely diced or grated for subtle sweetness and texture in every bite.
• Garlic Powder: A pinch for savory depth without overpowering the sauce.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the meatballs pop.
• Black Pepper: A dash for a gentle kick.

Sweet and Sour Sauce

• Pineapple Juice: The sweet, tropical base that gives the sauce its signature zing.
• Ketchup: Adds tang and a rich, tomatoey backbone—trust me, it’s key!
• Rice Vinegar: Brings the sour to balance the sweet—apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
• Brown Sugar: Melts into the sauce for a sticky, caramel-like sweetness.
• Soy Sauce: A splash for umami depth that ties everything together.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce into a glossy, clingy coating that hugs each meatball.
• Pineapple Chunks: Optional for extra bursts of fruitiness—canned or fresh both work.
• Bell Peppers: Optional diced red or green peppers for color and crunch.

Garnish

• Green Onions: Chopped for a fresh, colorful finish.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle for a nutty touch and pretty presentation.

Instructions

Let’s make these saucy meatballs happen:

Prep the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined—don’t overmix, keep ‘em tender! Roll into 1-inch balls (about 20-24 meatballs) and place on a plate.

Cook the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Add meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned all over and cooked through (internal temp should hit 160°F). Remove to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice to make a slurry—set aside. In the same skillet, combine remaining pineapple juice, ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

Thicken the Sauce

Stir the cornstarch slurry again, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened and glossy—it’ll look like a shiny glaze. If using pineapple chunks or bell peppers, toss them in now and cook for 2 more minutes to soften slightly.

Coat the Meatballs

Return the meatballs to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything’s warm and sticky.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for that extra flair. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone app with toothpicks for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6 (4 meatballs each)
• Calories per serving: 320

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Sweet and Sour Meatballs

These meatballs are super versatile—here’s how to make them the star of any meal:

• Over Rice: Spoon over fluffy white or jasmine rice to soak up that tangy sauce—pure comfort in a bowl.
• With Noodles: Toss with lo mein or ramen for a fun, slurpy twist.
• As an Appetizer: Skewer with toothpicks and serve with extra sauce for dipping at parties.
• Veggie Side: Pair with steamed broccoli or stir-fried snap peas for a colorful, balanced plate.
• Meal Prep: Pack with rice and veggies for lunches that reheat like a dream.

Presentation tip: Serve in a vibrant bowl with a generous sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds—it’ll look as good as it tastes!

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make these meatballs extra awesome, inspired by your love for adaptable, crowd-pleasing dishes like the Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole and Strawberry Crunch Cake we’ve talked about:

• Prep Ahead: Shape meatballs and refrigerate for up to a day—cook and sauce when ready for a quick meal.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Dietary Swaps: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari for dietary needs.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
• Freeze It: Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) for up to 3 months. Thaw, reheat, and toss in fresh sauce when craving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
A1: Yup! Cook frozen meatballs per package instructions, then toss in the sauce—saves time and still tastes great.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Totally! Prep meatballs and sauce separately up to a day ahead, then cook or reheat together when ready.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a bit of water to loosen the sauce.

Q4: Can I freeze sweet and sour meatballs?
A4: Yes! Freeze meatballs (unsauced) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge, then coat in fresh sauce before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A5: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, stirring gently, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Sure thing! Double everything and use a larger skillet or cook in batches—perfect for big crowds.

Q7: Can I skip the pineapple juice?
A7: You can swap with orange juice or apple juice, but pineapple gives that classic sweet-sour vibe.

Q8: What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
A8: Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar works fine—just use a bit less to avoid too much tang.

Q9: Can I make it vegetarian?
A9: Yup! Use plant-based meatballs or crumbled tofu and veggie broth in the sauce—still delicious.

Q10: How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
A10: Add a tablespoon of water or pineapple juice if it thickens too much—simmer gently to control the consistency.

Conclusion

These Sweet and Sour Meatballs are like a flavor explosion wrapped in comfort—juicy, saucy, and oh-so-easy to love. They’re the perfect dish to bring everyone together, whether you’re piling them over rice for dinner or passing them around at a party. With their quick prep and bold, tangy taste, they’re proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. So grab your skillet, put on some feel-good tunes, and whip up a batch that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. You’ve got this, and it’s going to be absolutely scrumptious!

Print