Sweet And Sour Meatballs: The Ultimate Sweet And Sour Meatballs Recipe

Name: Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 26 ounces frozen homestyle meatballs; 0.5 cup brown sugar; 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar; 0.33 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1" pieces; 1 medium green bell pepper, cut into 1" pieces; 1 cup yellow onion, cut into 1" pieces; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup pineapple chunks in 100% juice ((reserve ⅓ cup pineapple juice in a small bowl))

Introduction to Sweet And Sour Meatballs

Sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of meatballs with a tangy and sweet sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a main meal, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these meatballs offer a burst of flavor that everyone will love. They are easy to prepare and even easier to devour, making them a family favorite across generations.

A Personal Story Behind My Sweet And Sour Meatballs Journey

Growing up, my mother always made sweet and sour meatballs for special occasions. The smell of the sweet and tangy sauce would fill our home, inviting everyone to the dinner table. It was a dish that brought family together, and I remember eagerly waiting to taste those delicious meatballs. Now, I carry on this tradition, sharing this recipe with my family and friends, ensuring that the love and joy associated with this dish continue to thrive through generations.

What Makes This Sweet And Sour Meatballs Recipe Special?

What sets this sweet and sour meatballs recipe apart is its simplicity and the burst of flavors that come together effortlessly. Using frozen homestyle meatballs makes preparation quick and easy, while the homemade sauce, made from brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup, adds a unique twist that elevates the dish. The addition of colorful bell peppers and pineapple chunks not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant visual appeal to the meal. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize according to your preferences!

The Full Sweet And Sour Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

26 ounces frozen homestyle meatballs
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
⅓ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1″ pieces
1 medium green bell pepper, cut into 1″ pieces
1 cup yellow onion, cut into 1″ pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup pineapple chunks in 100% juice (reserve ⅓ cup pineapple juice in a small bowl)

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk until well blended and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the red and green bell peppers along with the yellow onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Tip: Make sure not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp.
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the sweet and sour sauce you prepared earlier. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Add the frozen meatballs to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
In a small bowl, whisk the reserved pineapple juice with the cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the meatballs and stir well. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
Gently fold in the pineapple chunks, stirring until they are well coated in the sauce.

Serve the sweet and sour meatballs over rice and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Tip: For a little extra crunch, consider adding some chopped green onions as a garnish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Sweet And Sour Meatballs

These sweet and sour meatballs can be served over fluffy white rice or steamed brown rice for a heartier meal. For a complete dinner, pair them with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding other vegetables such as carrots or snap peas for added color and nutrition. You can also serve the meatballs as an appetizer at parties, skewering them with toothpicks for easy serving. They also work great in a sub sandwich for a delightful twist!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet And Sour Meatballs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen? Absolutely! Homemade meatballs can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the sauce.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Can I freeze sweet and sour meatballs? Yes! These meatballs freeze well. Just allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes! You can substitute the meatballs with plant-based meatballs available in stores or make your own using lentils or beans.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per Serving: 250
Servings: 6