Sweet and sour meatballs are the ultimate combination of flavors: savory, juicy meatballs tossed in a tangy, sweet, and sticky sauce. These meatballs are a family favorite, perfect for serving as an appetizer at parties, a fun snack, or even as a main dish over rice or noodles. This classic dish combines simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, with a bold, mouth-watering sauce made from pantry staples like ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce. With their irresistible balance of flavors and the soft, tender texture of the meatballs, these sweet and sour meatballs are bound to become a favorite in your household.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make, yet how impressive it looks and tastes. The meatballs are baked, not fried, which saves on both mess and extra calories, while still creating a deliciously crispy outside. The sauce is a simple, homemade sweet and sour mixture that’s both vibrant in color and flavor, sticking to the meatballs and coating each bite in tangy goodness. This recipe is versatile too—you can make it with ground beef, pork, turkey, or even chicken, and you can adjust the level of sweetness and tanginess in the sauce to suit your taste.
In this guide, I’ll take you through each step of making Sweet and Sour Meatballs from scratch. We’ll cover tips for keeping the meatballs moist and flavorful, achieving the perfect balance in the sauce, and different ways to serve and customize this dish. Whether you’re cooking for a party, prepping a weeknight meal, or just satisfying a craving, these meatballs are sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Crowd-Pleaser: These meatballs are ideal for gatherings, as they’re a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish over rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen, making them perfect for busy days when you need a quick meal.
Customizable Sauce: You can adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce to suit your preference, making it as sweet or as sour as you like.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes 4-6 servings (about 30 meatballs)
- Serving Size: 5-6 meatballs
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 16g
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground pork, turkey, or chicken)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar for a milder taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh pineapple chunks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Form the Meatballs: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it between your hands to form a small ball. Place the meatball on the prepared baking sheet, and repeat with the remaining mixture, arranging the meatballs in a single layer. You should have about 30 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and slightly browned on the outside. Baking the meatballs rather than frying them is not only healthier but also much easier, as you don’t need to stand by the stove.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and pineapple juice. Stir well to combine and dissolve the sugar.
- Bring to a Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency. Taste and adjust the sauce, adding more sugar if you prefer it sweeter, or a little extra vinegar for more tang.
Step 3: Combine the Meatballs and Sauce
- Add the Meatballs to the Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently toss to coat each meatball in the sweet and sour sauce, ensuring they’re fully covered.
- Simmer for Extra Flavor: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes on low heat. This step helps the meatballs absorb the sauce, making them even more flavorful.
- Add Optional Pineapple Chunks: For extra sweetness and texture, add fresh or canned pineapple chunks to the saucepan during the last few minutes of simmering. The pineapple adds a burst of tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Transfer the sweet and sour meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve Hot: Serve the meatballs hot, with additional sauce on the side for dipping. They’re perfect on their own as an appetizer, or you can serve them over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
How to Serve Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas:
- As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks on a platter, perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings.
- Over Rice or Noodles: Serve the meatballs over steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles for a filling main course.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the meatballs in crisp lettuce leaves, drizzled with extra sauce.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
- With Pineapple Fried Rice: For a tropical twist, serve with pineapple fried rice for a complete, flavorful meal.
Additional Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
- Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Fresh or homemade breadcrumbs absorb moisture better than pre-packaged ones, making the meatballs more tender.
- Adjust the Sweetness and Tanginess: Customize the sauce to suit your taste. Add more sugar for extra sweetness or more vinegar for a tangier flavor.
- Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking the meatballs keeps them juicy without the need for extra oil, and it’s much less messy than frying.
- Let the Meatballs Simmer in the Sauce: After adding the meatballs to the sauce, let them simmer for a few minutes to absorb more flavor and become extra juicy.
Recipe Variations
- Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish. Add an extra tablespoon of oil to prevent the meatballs from drying out.
- Spicy Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Hawaiian Meatballs: Add canned pineapple chunks to the sauce for a tropical twist. You can also add red and green bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Use store-bought vegetarian meatballs or make homemade veggie meatballs with beans and breadcrumbs.
- Asian-Inspired Meatballs: Add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce and a sprinkle of ginger to the sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Freezing and Storage
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. Let the meatballs cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the meatballs in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking of the meatballs.
- Medium Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for making the sauce and coating the meatballs.
- Small Ice Cream Scoop (Optional): For evenly sized meatballs, use a small ice cream scoop or a spoon to portion out the meat mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs to save time. Simply heat them according to package instructions, then toss them in the homemade sweet and sour sauce.
2. Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free as well.
3. Can I make the sauce without ketchup?
If you prefer a ketchup-free sauce, use tomato paste or a homemade tomato sauce as a base, adjusting the sugar and vinegar as needed for balance.
4. How can I make these meatballs dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk, in place of regular milk in the meatball mixture.
5. How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?
Make sure not to overbake the meatballs, and let them simmer in the sauce to keep them juicy and flavorful.
Conclusion
Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that make any meal feel special. The tender, juicy meatballs, coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce, are satisfying and versatile, perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable, allowing you to adjust the sauce, add extra veggies, or use your favorite type of meat. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, pairing with rice, or enjoying as a snack, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit. With minimal prep and a simple list of ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s bursting with flavor. Try this recipe the next time you’re craving something delicious and comforting—you’re sure to love every bite of these sweet and sour meatballs. Happy cooking!
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Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes 4-6 servings (about 30 meatballs) 1x
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground pork, turkey, or chicken)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar for a milder taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh pineapple chunks
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Form the Meatballs: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it between your hands to form a small ball. Place the meatball on the prepared baking sheet, and repeat with the remaining mixture, arranging the meatballs in a single layer. You should have about 30 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and slightly browned on the outside. Baking the meatballs rather than frying them is not only healthier but also much easier, as you don’t need to stand by the stove.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and pineapple juice. Stir well to combine and dissolve the sugar.
- Bring to a Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency. Taste and adjust the sauce, adding more sugar if you prefer it sweeter, or a little extra vinegar for more tang.
Step 3: Combine the Meatballs and Sauce
- Add the Meatballs to the Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently toss to coat each meatball in the sweet and sour sauce, ensuring they’re fully covered.
- Simmer for Extra Flavor: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes on low heat. This step helps the meatballs absorb the sauce, making them even more flavorful.
- Add Optional Pineapple Chunks: For extra sweetness and texture, add fresh or canned pineapple chunks to the saucepan during the last few minutes of simmering. The pineapple adds a burst of tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Transfer the sweet and sour meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve Hot: Serve the meatballs hot, with additional sauce on the side for dipping. They’re perfect on their own as an appetizer, or you can serve them over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5-6 meatballs
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g