Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs

“Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delicious, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish made with tender meatballs, bell peppers, onions, and pineapple in a tangy sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or potlucks, this crockpot recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal the whole family will love!”

These Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs are an effortless and delicious meal that combines tender, juicy meatballs with a tangy, flavorful sauce. Paired with vibrant vegetables and sweet pineapple, this dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer!

Ingredients

• 20 frozen meatballs
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 cups canned pineapple chunks, drained
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Peel and thinly slice the onion. Wash the green bell pepper, remove the seeds and veins, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Meatballs:
   In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the frozen meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown on all sides.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
   Place the browned meatballs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Make the Sauce:
   In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sweet and sour sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Add the Ingredients:
   Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Top with the sliced onions, diced bell pepper, and pineapple chunks.
6. Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve:
   Serve the sweet and sour meatballs hot over a bed of cooked rice. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Golden Brown Meatballs: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor if available.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Homemade Meatballs: Substitute frozen meatballs with homemade meatballs made from a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor.
• Barbecue Sauce: Swap the sweet and sour sauce for barbecue sauce for a tangy, smoky twist.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a bit of heat.

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FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! You can use homemade or store-bought fresh meatballs. Just make sure to brown them before adding them to the slow cooker to prevent them from falling apart.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, set it to cook, and you’ll have dinner ready in the evening.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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Serving Suggestions

• Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
• Noodles: Pair with lo mein or egg noodles for a delicious twist.
• Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks as a fun party appetizer.
• Vegetables: Enjoy alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Minimal prep and the slow cooker does all the work!
• Crowd-Pleaser: A favorite for both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or appetizer, and easy to customize with different sauces and vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party, these sweet and sour meatballs are always a hit!