The Most Scrumptious Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe Ever

Mouthwatering sweet and sour meatballs dance with incredible flavor profiles that instantly capture attention.

Juicy ground beef mingles perfectly with tangy sauce ingredients.

Families adore these bite-sized delights that bring everyone around the table.

Complex spices create unexpected depth in each carefully crafted morsel.

Simple pantry staples combine effortlessly to produce a crowd-pleasing dish.

Comfort meets excitement through this remarkable recipe that feels both familiar and surprising.

You’ll want to bookmark this culinary gem for future gatherings.

Dig into a meal that promises pure deliciousness in every single bite.

Why Sweet and Sour Meatballs Are So Craveable

• Breeze Through Cooking: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients make this recipe a stress-free cooking experience for busy home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Sensation: The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory creates an irresistible sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Party Showstopper: Ideal for potlucks, game day gatherings, holiday parties, or casual family dinners, these meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that suits multiple occasions.
• Pantry-Friendly Meal: Uses common ingredients and frozen meatballs, allowing you to create a delicious dish without a last-minute grocery run.

Everything You’ll Need for Sweet and Sour Meatballs

• Frozen Meatballs: Pre-cooked protein base that provides the core substance of the dish.

• Chili Sauce: Adds spicy and tangy flavor to the overall sauce.
• Cranberry Sauce: Contributes sweetness and fruity depth to the recipe.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps create a rich sauce.
• Vinegar: Provides a tart and acidic balance to the sweet elements.
• Soy Sauce: Introduces a savory umami flavor to the sauce.

• Mustard, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Offer complex background notes and aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Standard seasonings to adjust and enhance overall taste.

• Parsley: Fresh herb for visual appeal and light herbal finish.

How to Make Sweet and Sour Meatballs Effortlessly

Step 1: Create Tangy Sauce

• Chili sauce
• Cranberry sauce
• Brown sugar
• Vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Mustard
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Heat the mixture over medium temperature, stirring until everything blends smoothly. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.

Step 2: Add Meatballs

Gently drop the frozen meatballs into the simmering sauce. Use a wooden spoon to ensure each meatball gets completely coated with the vibrant, glossy mixture.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Lower the heat to a gentle warmth. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the meatballs cook for 20-25 minutes.

Occasionally stir to prevent sticking and promote even heating.

Step 4: Final Touch

Check that the meatballs are thoroughly warmed and the sauce has thickened to a delectable consistency.

For a burst of freshness and color, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving.

Tip: These meatballs are perfect for game day, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner that will impress everyone at the table!

Tricks for Better Sweet and Sour Meatballs

• Swap frozen meatballs with homemade beef or turkey meatballs for a fresher, more personalized flavor profile.
• Lower the sugar content by using sugar-free cranberry sauce or reducing brown sugar amount for a healthier version.
• Prevent sauce from burning by stirring occasionally and maintaining a low, steady simmer during cooking.
• Add extra depth to the sauce by incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or with toothpicks as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties and gatherings.

Fun Twists on Sweet and Sour Meatballs

• Tropical Fruity Meatballs: Replace cranberry sauce with mango or pineapple preserves for a sweet, tropical flavor profile that adds vibrant Caribbean-inspired zest.
• Asian Fusion Meatballs: Swap chili sauce with sriracha and add ginger, replace vinegar with rice wine, and sprinkle sesame seeds for an authentic Asian-inspired sauce.
• Spicy Bourbon Meatballs: Incorporate bourbon whiskey instead of vinegar, use honey instead of brown sugar, and add red pepper flakes for a rich, smoky, and spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Meatballs: Mix in oregano, basil, and lemon zest to the sauce, replace soy sauce with balsamic vinegar, and garnish with fresh mint for a Mediterranean touch.

Great Pairings for Sweet and Sour Meatballs

• Elevate Sweet and Sour Meatballs Pairing
• Complement Flavor Blast: Crisp, dry Riesling wine cuts through the sweet and tangy sauce, balancing the rich meatball flavors with its bright acidity.
• Serve Alongside Crunch: Garlic roasted broccoli provides a fresh, green vegetable contrast that enhances the dish's robust sauce and adds nutritional balance.
• Match Comfort Vibes: Fluffy white rice or buttery egg noodles absorb the delicious sauce perfectly, creating a complete and satisfying meal experience.
• Boost Texture Contrast: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top to add a nutty, fresh crunch that elevates the meatballs' overall taste profile.

How to Store and Reheat Meatballs Just Right

• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer cooled meatballs and sauce to an airtight container, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer Storage: Pack meatballs in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, removing excess air, and freeze for 2-3 months.
• Microwave Reheating: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.
• Stovetop Reheating: Warm meatballs in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if sauce becomes too thick, until heated completely.

Sweet and Sour Meatball FAQs

• What are the key flavor components in this sweet and sour sauce?

The sauce combines tangy elements like vinegar and chili sauce with sweet ingredients like cranberry sauce and brown sugar, creating a balanced, complex flavor profile that coats the meatballs perfectly.

• Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work great in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the sauce, and adjust cooking time accordingly to heat them through.

• How can I make the sauce less sweet or spicy?

Adjust the brown sugar and chili sauce quantities to control sweetness and heat. Start with smaller amounts and taste as you go, adding more gradually to suit your preference.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these sweet and sour meatballs are excellent for meal prep.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Culinary magic unfolds with sweet and sour meatballs, a delightful dish blending tangy flavors and savory textures. Succulent meatballs draped in a luscious sauce promise a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1.5 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 (12 fluid ounces / 354 milliliters) bottle chili sauce
• 1 (14 fluid ounces / 414 milliliters) can jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Kosher salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Whisk together chili sauce, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large saucepan over medium heat until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended.
2. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
3. Gently introduce frozen meatballs into the simmering sauce, ensuring each meatball is completely coated with the vibrant, tangy mixture.
4. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the saucepan, and allow the meatballs to warm through for 20-25 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and promote even heating.
5. Once the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are thoroughly heated, remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
6. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness before presenting to guests.

Notes

• Choose high-quality frozen meatballs for the best texture and flavor in this quick and easy dish.
• Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or using a sugar substitute for a healthier version.
• Swap frozen meatballs with homemade or plant-based alternatives to accommodate different dietary preferences.
• Use fresh garlic and onion instead of powdered versions for a more robust and authentic taste profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg