When the craving for something delicious hits, it’s often a toss-up between quick bites and satisfying flavors. That’s where these Sweet and Sour Meatballs come in — a perfect marriage of speed and indulgence that never fails to impress! I first whipped these up for a casual get-together, and within minutes, they disappeared off the platter, leaving everyone asking for more.

Imagine tender, juicy meatballs swathed in a glossy sauce that perfectly dances between sweet and tangy. This dish is not just for parties; it effortlessly elevates a weeknight dinner too. The magical part? It takes less than an hour from start to finish, making it an ideal solution for busy evenings when you want something comforting and mouthwatering.

Ready to step away from fast food and bring the warmth of homemade cooking back into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy recipe, guaranteed to impress your friends and family!

Why are Sweet Sour Meatballs a Must-Try?

Juicy, Flavorful Bites: Each meatball is bursting with flavor, the combination of beef and spices creating a satisfying taste sensation.
Quick & Easy Preparation: This recipe can be on your table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Who can resist that sticky, tangy sauce? These meatballs are bound to be a hit with family and friends!
Versatile Option: Serve them as appetizers or over rice for a hearty meal. You can even try different jellies for a twist!
Simplified Cooking: With step-by-step instructions and minimal prep, you’ll feel like a culinary pro without the hassle. For similar quick recipes, check out my Cooker Sweet Sour meatballs – they’re just as delicious!

Sweet Sour Meatballs Ingredients

For the Meatballs
• Ground Beef – Main protein source; opt for 80/20 or 85/15 for juiciness.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
• Breadcrumbs – Adds much-needed texture; can be replaced with gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary.
• Onion (finely diced) – Infuses flavor and moisture; feel free to skip if you like a smoother texture.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the meatballs.
• Black Pepper – Provides a touch of seasoning for balance.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth; fresh minced garlic can be a great alternative.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Introduces rich umami flavors; soy sauce works as a tasty substitute.

For the Sauce
• Chili Sauce – The base for the sweet sour sauce; Heinz Chili Sauce is recommended for the best taste.
• Grape Jelly – Offers sweetness and a glossy finish; switch it up with apricot jam for a unique flavor.
• Parsley (freshly chopped) – Use as a garnish for that lovely fresh touch; optional but lovely!

How to Make Sweet Sour Meatballs

Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, diced onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Blend gently until just combined for tender meatballs.
Shape Meatballs:
Form the mixture into 40-45 uniform 1-inch meatballs, placing them on a foil-lined baking sheet. This will ensure even cooking and a lovely presentation!
Broil Meatballs:
Preheat your broiler to high and place the baking sheet under it. Broil the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine chili sauce and grape jelly. Stir the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the jelly completely melts and the sauce is smooth.
Slow Cook:
Lightly spray your slow cooker with cooking spray, then transfer the broiled meatballs into it. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve:
Carefully transfer the meatballs to a serving dish, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve them warm on toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or over rice for a comforting meal.

Optional: Enjoy with steamed broccoli or green beans to add a fresh balance to the dish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Sweet Sour Meatballs

Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender; handle gently for the best texture.
Uniform Size: Shape meatballs to be uniform in size for even cooking and a consistent presentation.
Broiling Importance: Don’t skip the broiling step; it helps hold the meatballs’ shape and adds flavor.
Slow Cooker Caution: Limit stirring the meatballs in the slow cooker to prevent them from breaking apart in the sauce.
Substitution Options: Feel free to substitute ground beef with pork or turkey and explore different jelly flavors for a unique twist on sweet sour meatballs.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Sour Meatballs

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Let the meatballs cool completely before sealing.

Freezer: Freeze sweet sour meatballs in portions with sauce for up to 3 months. Place them in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Reheat and serve over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a quick and easy meal.

Sweet Sour Meatballs Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these meatballs with flavors and swaps that excite your taste buds!

Ground Turkey: Swap in ground turkey for a leaner version that still delivers on flavor and juiciness.
Pork Option: Use ground pork instead of beef for a richer, slightly sweeter flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of Sriracha or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a mouthwatering heat.
Fruit Twist: Swap grape jelly for peach or raspberry jam for a delightful fruity twist that’s sure to surprise!
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the meatball mixture for an aromatic layer of flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oatmeal to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
Veggie Boost: Fold in finely grated zucchini or carrot into the meat mixture for added moisture and hidden veggies.
Asian Flare: Use hoisin sauce in place of chili sauce for a sweet-and-savory Asian touch in the sauce.

Experimenting with these variations will make every batch a delightful new experience, keeping dinner exciting!

What to Serve with Sweet Sour Meatballs?

Create a delightful spread that enhances the flavors of your meatballs and transforms your meal into a comforting feast.

Steamed Broccoli: A bright and crisp side, steamed broccoli adds a touch of freshness, balancing the rich sweetness of the meatballs.
Fluffy Rice: Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. Its subtle flavor and texture soak up that luscious sweet and sour sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
Crispy Green Beans: Sautéed with a sprinkle of garlic and olive oil, crispy green beans provide a lovely crunch and vibrant color, bringing balance to the dish.
Garlic Bread: Offering a buttery crunch, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauce. It adds a comforting touch that pairs harmoniously with the sweet and tangy flavors.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and tangy contrast, cutting through the meatballs’ richness for a balanced plate.
Mango Salad: A light mango salad introduces a touch of tropical sweetness that complements the meatballs while adding vibrant colors and healthy greens to your table.
Chilled Wine: Pair with a chilled Riesling or Moscato. Their fruity notes echo the sweet flavors of the sauce, enhancing your meal experience.
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, consider fudgy chocolate brownies. Their sweetness and rich texture serve as a lovely finale to the savory meatball experience.

Sweet Sour Meatballs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground beef for meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best results, select ground beef that is 80/20 or 85/15. This fat content helps keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful. Avoid using leaner options like 90/10, as they can result in dry meatballs.

How should I store leftovers of sweet sour meatballs?
You can store your leftover sweet sour meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to avoid condensation inside the container, which can affect texture.

Can I freeze sweet sour meatballs?
Yes! To freeze, place the meatballs along with their sauce in freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They will maintain quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

What if my meatballs are falling apart during cooking?
If your meatballs are crumbling, it’s often due to overmixing or too much moisture. Make sure to mix only until the ingredients are just combined. When cooking, ensure they are shaped evenly to support cooking through without falling apart. If they still crumble, next time, add a bit more breadcrumbs as a binder.

Are these sweet sour meatballs safe for pets?
While sweet sour meatballs can be delicious for us, they might not be suitable for pets due to ingredients like onion and garlic which are toxic to dogs. If you’d like to share with your furry friend, consider making a separate batch using safe ingredients.

Can I use a different jelly for the sauce?
Very much so! You can switch out grape jelly for other flavors like apricot or raspberry. Each will lend its own unique twist to your sweet sour meatballs, so feel free to experiment!