Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs

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Sweet and sour meatballs are the kind of dish that wins everyone over. They strike the perfect balance between savory comfort and zesty brightness. And when you toss them into a slow cooker? That’s weeknight magic. The sauce thickens as it simmers, soaking into every bite-sized meatball until they’re sticky, flavorful, and completely irresistible.

This dish is an easy favorite for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home. You get tender, juicy meatballs bathed in a homemade sweet and sour sauce made from simple pantry staples. No need for takeout when your kitchen can make it better—and keep it warm until you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Sour Meatball Dish

These slow cooker sweet and sour meatballs are perfect for busy days. You can throw everything in the pot and walk away, then come back to a dinner that tastes like it took hours to make. They’re freezer-friendly, kid-approved, and incredibly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or over rice for a hearty meal, they never disappoint.

Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?

Absolutely! If you want to save time, using frozen fully cooked meatballs is a great shortcut. They hold up beautifully in the slow cooker and soak up all the tangy-sweet flavor from the sauce. Homemade meatballs work too if you have extra time, but store-bought versions are perfect for quick prep without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs

This dish uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here are the key components and why they matter:

Meatballs
You can use homemade or frozen, fully cooked meatballs. They are the protein-rich base that carries all the sauce flavor.

Pineapple chunks (with juice)
The pineapple adds tropical sweetness and natural acidity that balances the tang in the sauce.

Brown sugar
Gives the sauce a rich, caramel-like sweetness.

Ketchup
A pantry favorite that forms the base of the sauce and adds tang and thickness.

Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
This is where the “sour” comes from, balancing the sweetness perfectly.

Soy sauce
Adds a deep umami flavor that ties everything together.

Bell peppers (red and green)
They add color, crunch, and a slight bitterness to counter the sauce’s sweetness.

Cornstarch and water
Used at the end to thicken the sauce so it clings to every meatball.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker

Spray your slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray or use a liner to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth and combined.

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Place the meatballs, pineapple chunks, and sliced bell peppers into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and gently stir everything together.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the peppers are tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the sauce. This helps the sauce thicken beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Give everything a gentle stir before serving. Spoon over rice or serve with toothpicks for a crowd-friendly appetizer.

Serving and Storing Your Meatballs

This dish feeds about 6 people as a main course or up to 10 as an appetizer. Serve the meatballs over fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a hearty meal. If you’re going low-carb, try cauliflower rice.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Sweet and Sour Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The light fragrance and fluffy texture pair perfectly with the rich sauce.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Add crunch and color with a mix of broccoli, snap peas, and carrots.

Egg Rolls

Crunchy egg rolls with a veggie filling make a fun side or starter.

Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed green beans in garlic oil bring a savory freshness to the meal.

Fried Rice

Mix it up with homemade fried rice as a flavorful bed for the meatballs.

Asian Slaw

A crisp, tangy cabbage slaw balances out the sweet richness.

Noodles

Try lo mein or rice noodles tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce.

Mini Bao Buns

These pillowy buns are great for making little meatball sandwiches.

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