Description
These Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors. Juicy homemade meatballs are coated in a rich, flavorful sauce made with ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar, creating a dish that’s better than takeout. Serve over rice, noodles, or enjoy as an appetizer for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red, green, or both)
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Make the meatballs – In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs – Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with oil and cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce – In the same skillet, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the sauce – Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add veggies and pineapple – Toss in diced bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Combine everything – Return the meatballs to the skillet, stirring until they are fully coated in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve and enjoy! Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions and serve over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use canned or fresh pineapple, depending on preference.
- Try serving in lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb version.
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American-Chinese