Hey y'all! If you're searching for a crowd-pleasing dish that practically cooks itself, these Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners are your new best friend. Juicy meatballs smothered in a tangy, sticky-sweet sauce are always a hit, whether you're hosting a game night, prepping family dinner, or stashing away leftovers for busy weekdays. Plus, everything comes together in your slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners Recipe
- Zero-Stress Prep: Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you relax.
- Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: These meatballs are always a hit at potlucks, family dinners, or parties.
- Versatile Meal: Serve over rice, noodles, or toothpicked as an appetizer.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for future dinners.
- Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy sauce infuses every bite with irresistible taste.
Ingredients for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- 2 pounds frozen fully-cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (with juice)
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions and sesame seeds
How to Make Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker insert lightly with nonstick spray for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Add Meatballs and Veggies
Pour the frozen meatballs, pineapple chunks (with juice), and diced bell pepper into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Mix Up the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce until well combined. Pour over the meatballs and veggies.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-2.5 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the flavors are infused.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, stir together cornstarch and water, then add to the slow cooker. Mix gently and continue cooking with the lid slightly ajar until the sauce is thick and glossy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Give everything a gentle stir, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot!
Notes for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- For best results, use quality frozen meatballs—homemade or store-bought both work!
- Leave the bell peppers slightly chunky for extra texture after slow cooking.
- If you'd like a tangier sauce, add an extra splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Variations of Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a spicy-sweet twist.
- Vegetarian: Use plant-based meatballs and tamari instead of soy sauce for an all-veg version.
- Tropical: Swap in mango chunks or add extra pineapple for a fruity boost.
Required Equipment for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- 6-quart slow cooker (crockpot)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving spoon
Storage Instructions for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout.
Suggested Pairings and Serving Recommendations
- Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
- Pair with simple stir-fried veggies or a crisp Asian-style slaw for freshness.
- Offer as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Pro Tips for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- For extra flavor, sear the meatballs in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker (learn how to sear meatballs).
- Avoid overcooking—stick to the recommended times for perfectly tender meatballs.
- Use fresh pineapple for a zingier, natural sweetness (see more about pineapple's health benefits).
FAQ: Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Zero-Stress Dinners
- Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
- Absolutely! Just brown them first to hold their shape and reduce the slow cooker time by 30 minutes if starting with cooked, chilled homemade meatballs.
- Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
- Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough and allow a bit of extra time for everything to heat through evenly.
- Is it okay to leave the meatballs on the warm setting?
- Yes, you can keep them on warm for up to 2 hours—just stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-2.5 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds frozen meatballs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
-
1Place the frozen meatballs in the bottom of the crockpot.
-
2Add the pineapple chunks, chopped bell pepper, and chopped onion over the meatballs.
-
3In a bowl, whisk together the sweet and sour sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
-
4Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs and vegetables in the crockpot.
-
5Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
-
6Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with extra pineapple or green onions if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!