Sweet And Sour Meatballs

Name: Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1/2 cup vinegar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a delightful blend of flavors with these Sweet And Sour Meatballs that make a perfect addition to your dinner or holiday spread. Juicy meatballs are enveloped in a tangy sauce, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the zest of vinegar. This recipe is not just a family favorite; it's also an easy make-ahead dish that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-24T06:05:10.125Z

Versatile Flavor Pairings

Sweet and sour meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a myriad of side dishes. Whether you're serving them at a family barbecue, a holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner, they blend seamlessly with various accompaniments. The tangy sauce, with hints of pineapple and vinegar, complements a range of flavors, making it ideal to serve over steamed rice or alongside noodles. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce to elevate the flavor profile. This small tweak can transform the dish, appealing to spice lovers while maintaining the dish's sweet and sour essence. Experimenting with different sides and variations ensures that sweet and sour meatballs can be enjoyed in many creative ways.

Meal Prep Masterpiece

One of the standout features of sweet and sour meatballs is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or large gatherings. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat and combine, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together. This approach not only saves time but also enhances the flavor of the dish, as it allows the meatballs to absorb the sauce more fully.

If you're planning a meal for guests, consider doubling the recipe. These sweet and sour meatballs are sure to be a hit, and leftovers can be stored for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It's a practical and efficient way to ensure that you have delicious meals ready to go, all while impressing your family and friends with minimal effort.

Nutrition and Ingredients

While sweet and sour meatballs provide a comforting, hearty meal, they can also be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs. For those looking to make a healthier version, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef, while alternative binders, such as oats or quinoa, can replace breadcrumbs. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, gluten-free breadcrumbs are widely available and work just as well in this recipe.

The ingredients used to make the sauce are not only flavorful but also contribute a variety of nutrients. Pineapple is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and manganese, which supports immune function and healthy bone production. Overall, this dish is not just delicious but can also be tailored to suit your nutritional goals, making it a great option for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

1 cup pineapple chunks
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Mix all meatball ingredients together and shape into balls.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then form into meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, then remove from skillet.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, combine pineapple, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Serve

Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the sauce. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.

Serve hot with rice or noodles.

Storing and Reheating

To store your sweet and sour meatballs effectively, cool them completely and then transfer them into airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer-lasting freshness. When reheating, ensure that the meatballs are heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the meatballs moist.

If you're planning to freeze the meatballs, it's often best to freeze them before cooking. This allows for easier handling and prevents the meatballs from becoming too soggy when thawed. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, transfer them to a freezer bag once solid, and you can cook them from frozen later.

Serving Suggestions

Serving sweet and sour meatballs can be a fun experience, especially if you want to get creative with plating. Consider presenting them over a bed of jasmine rice, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an attractive and flavorful touch. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds extra texture and flavor to every bite.

Another popular serving option is to offer the meatballs as appetizers at parties or gatherings. You can skewer them with toothpicks for easy handling and serve them alongside a dipping sauce for guests to enjoy. A tangy dip, like a spicy mustard or sweet chili sauce, can complement the sweet and sour profile and make for a delicious finger food option.

Customizing Your Meatballs

One of the joys of making sweet and sour meatballs is the freedom to customize them according to taste preferences. You can add herbs and spices, such as parsley, cilantro, or even ginger, to enhance the flavor. Incorporating finely diced bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture can boost the nutritional content while adding a delightful crunch.

If you’re a fan of different flavor profiles, consider experimenting with sauces. A dash of chili sauce or a spoonful of honey can add depth to the sauce’s sweetness. You can even try using different types of vinegar like rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a unique twist, ensuring the dish always feels fresh and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Meatballs?

These meatballs go well with rice, noodles, or even in a sub sandwich.