Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Oh boy, do I have a game-changer for you! These crockpot sweet and sour meatballs are the perfect mix of tangy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. And the best part? The slow cooker does all the work!

I’ve made these for parties, weeknight dinners, and even lazy Sundays. Every single time, they disappear fast. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch—one for now and one for later.

Imagine juicy meatballs soaking up a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce, all simmered to perfection. They’re sticky, saucy, and downright irresistible. And since the crockpot does the cooking, you get all the flavor with none of the hassle.

Ready to make the easiest, most delicious meatballs ever? Grab your slow cooker, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Set It and Forget It: The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet pineapple meets savory soy sauce and tangy vinegar for a satisfying bite.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and game day spreads.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy over rice, in sandwiches, or as a party appetizer.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (on low) or 2-3 hours (on high)
• Total Time: About 4-6 hours

Servings

This recipe makes about 6 servings, depending on portion sizes. Need more? Simply double the ingredients!

Difficulty Level

This recipe is beginner-friendly—if you can stir, you can make it!

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these flavorful crockpot sweet and sour meatballs, you’ll need:

• Slow Cooker: The key to tender, flavorful meatballs.
• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the sauce.
• Whisk: To combine the ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy.
• Small Saucepan: If thickening the sauce at the end.
• Slotted Spoon: Helps scoop out meatballs without too much sauce.

Ingredients for the Sweet and Sour Sauce

This sauce combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors for the perfect glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks (with juice) – Adds natural sweetness and tropical flavor.
• ¼ cup honey – Provides a mild, natural sweetness.
• ¼ cup soy sauce – Balances the sweetness with deep umami flavor.
• ⅓ cup rice wine vinegar – Gives the dish a signature tangy kick.
• ½ cup ketchup – Adds richness and a slight acidity.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory depth.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic for a well-rounded taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – For a subtle warmth.
• 1 (28 oz) bag frozen homestyle meatballs – Use store-bought or homemade meatballs.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 3 tablespoons water – For thickening the sauce, if needed.
• Sliced green onions (optional) – A fresh garnish for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.

Variations for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Want to switch things up? Try these variations to customize the dish to your liking:

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a little heat.
• More Tropical Flavor: Mix in ½ cup coconut milk for a creamy, island-inspired twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to make this dish more colorful and nutritious.
• Low-Sugar Option: Swap honey for a sugar-free alternative or reduce the amount slightly.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free meatballs to make this dish allergy-friendly.
• Homemade Meatballs: If you prefer fresh meatballs over frozen, make your own by mixing:
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make slow-cooked sweet and sour meatballs with the perfect balance of flavor:

1. Make the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice (from the can), honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
• Stir until fully combined and smooth.

2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

• Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.
• Pour the prepared sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are evenly coated.
• Add pineapple chunks for extra sweetness.

3. Cook the Meatballs

• For low heat: Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.
• For high heat: Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
• Stir occasionally to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.

4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce:

• Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water in a small bowl to make a slurry.
• Pour the cornstarch mixture into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving.
• Stir well and let it cook until the sauce thickens.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet and sour meatballs are incredibly versatile! Here are a few delicious ways to serve them:

• Over Rice: Serve over steamed white rice, brown rice, or coconut rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• With Noodles: Pair with lo mein, ramen, or spaghetti for a fun twist.
• As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks on a platter for a party-friendly snack.
• Stuffed in Sandwiches: Make a meatball sub by placing them in a toasted hoagie roll with melted cheese.
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add a side of broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.

How to Store Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs

If you have leftovers (or want to meal prep), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator Storage

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely.
• Transfer them (along with the sauce) to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage

• Let the meatballs cool, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Store for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in a slow cooker or stovetop over low heat.

Tips and Tricks for Success

✔ For the Best Texture: Avoid overcooking! Even in a slow cooker, meatballs can dry out if cooked too long.

✔ To Make It Less Sweet: Reduce the honey or swap it for a sugar-free alternative.

✔ For a Shinier Sauce: Add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil at the end of cooking for a glossy finish.

✔ Customize the Flavor: Adjust the balance of sweet and sour by tweaking the ratio of vinegar to honey.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (based on a 6-serving recipe):

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	36g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	45mg
Sodium	750mg
Sugar	18g
Fiber	2g

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on the brand of ingredients used.

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs FAQs

Can I make this with fresh meatballs?

Yes! If using homemade or fresh meatballs, brown them in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

Can I use canned pineapple tidbits instead of chunks?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use the juice as part of the sauce.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can make this on the stovetop! Simmer the sauce and meatballs in a large pot over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit all the ingredients.

Conclusion

These Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, parties, and meal prepping. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes them a family favorite. Whether you serve them over rice, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit!