Sweet Sour Meatballs: 7 Steps to Delicious Comfort Food

Name: Sweet Sour Meatballs: 7 Steps to Delicious Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (Can substitute with ground chicken or turkey.); 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko for lighter texture.); 1 large Egg (Flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan alternative.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can enhance flavor.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adjust to suit your taste.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Low sodium recommended; use vegetable broth for vegetarian.); 1/2 cup Ketchup; 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice (Juice from canned pineapple is recommended.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Olive oil can be used as a substitute.); 1 cup Bell Peppers (Mix of red and green, can use other sweet varieties.); 1 cup Onions (Diced and shredded.); 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Canned pineapple makes for easy preparation.)

by basmer

11 de February de 2026

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Sweet Sour Meatballs are a quick and delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights. These meatballs bring together a balance of flavors that are both tangy and sweet, making them a family favorite. From the sizzling aroma of the meatballs cooking to the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and pineapple chunks, this dish is not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Let’s dive into how to make these comforting treats!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Sour Meatballs

This recipe for sweet and sour meatballs is a weeknight hero for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only about 40 minutes from start to finish. Second, the combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone in the family will enjoy. The use of pineapple juice adds a fruity twist, while the bell peppers bring a crunchy texture. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or as appetizers at a gathering, these tangy meatballs are sure to impress. Plus, they can be made gluten-free, accommodating various dietary preferences. With the option to cook them in an air fryer or bake them, you’ll love the versatility of this easy sweet and sour meatball recipe.

Ingredients for Sweet Sour Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 pound Ground Beef (Can substitute with ground chicken or turkey.)
1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko for lighter texture.)
1 large Egg (Flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan alternative.)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can enhance flavor.)
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper
1/4 cup Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.)
1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adjust to suit your taste.)
1 cup Chicken Broth (Low sodium recommended; use vegetable broth for vegetarian.)
1/2 cup Ketchup
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1/2 cup Pineapple Juice (Juice from canned pineapple is recommended.)
1 tablespoon Cornstarch
2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Olive oil can be used as a substitute.)
1 cup Bell Peppers (Mix of red and green, can use other sweet varieties.)
1 cup Onions (Diced and shredded.)
1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Canned pineapple makes for easy preparation.)

How to Make Sweet Sour Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined and shape into golf ball-sized meatballs.
Step 2: Place the meatballs in an air fryer preheated to 380°F and cook for 10 minutes, or bake them on a lined sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden brown.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, brown sugar, chicken broth, ketchup, tomato paste, pineapple juice, and cornstarch until smooth and well mixed.
Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and bell peppers for about 1 minute until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 5: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring until thickened, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Add in the pineapple chunks and the cooked meatballs, tossing to coat everything in the rich sauce.
Step 7: Allow the meatballs to cook in the sauce for an extra 2 minutes, then serve hot over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a comforting meal.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sweet Sour Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture in your meatballs.
For extra flavor, consider adding minced fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.
These meatballs can also be made in a slow cooker; simply combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6 hours.
For a variation, try making BBQ meatballs with a twist by using BBQ sauce instead of the sweet and sour sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Sour Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal, or pair them with noodles for a delightful twist. They can also be served as sweet sour meatball appetizers at parties, providing a bite-sized treat that guests will love. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for garnish to elevate the presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Sour Meatballs

Store leftover sweet sour meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet until warmed through. These meatballs also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Just ensure to store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Sour Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Sour Meatballs?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors. Using fresh ingredients like garlic and a good quality chicken broth enhances the overall taste. Don’t skimp on the pineapple juice, as it adds that signature sweet-tangy flavor that makes these meatballs unforgettable.

Can I make Sweet Sour Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape and cook them when you’re ready. This makes for a convenient weeknight meal option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Sour Meatballs?

To avoid dry meatballs, be careful not to overmix the meat mixture. Also, ensure the meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature without becoming overcooked. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure perfect doneness.

Variations of Sweet Sour Meatballs You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few variations:

Try making Asian-style meatballs by adding soy sauce and ginger to the meat mixture.
For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
Experiment with different sauces, like honey garlic meatballs, for a sweeter flavor profile.
Make these meatballs baked instead of fried for a guilt-free option.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try our Korean BBQ meatballs for a spicy twist. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider our slow cooker Korean beef recipe for an easy dinner option.