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Sweet & Sour Meatballs

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Sweet & Sour Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs coated in a sticky, tangy-sweet glaze. Perfect over rice or noodles, this quick and easy dish is great for weeknights or entertaining guests.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop or Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • For the meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for browning)
  • For the sauce:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
  • Optional additions:
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper until just combined. Shape into small meatballs.
  2. Brown meatballs in a skillet with oil over medium heat or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
  3. In a saucepan, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring until thick and glossy.
  5. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes to coat.
  6. Stir in bell peppers and pineapple chunks (if using), and cook until just tender.
  7. Serve hot over rice and garnish with green onions.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs for a faster option.
  • Add sriracha or hoisin for extra heat or umami.
  • Add snap peas or broccoli for a one-pan meal.
  • Adjust sugar or vinegar in the sauce to suit your taste.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/sweet-sour-meatballs/