If you love dishes that balance tangy flavors with a hint of sweetness, our Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a must-try. This recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs with a vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or even as a fun appetizer. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this irresistible dish!
Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Meatballs
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce: - 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Kitchen Tools Required
- Mixing bowls (for meatball mixture and sauce)
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking sheet (if baking meatballs)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to make perfect Sour Meatballs every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, onion powder, and chopped parsley.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
- Roll the mixture into small, uniform balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or plate while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Option 1 – Pan-Frying:
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
- Remove the meatballs and set aside.
Option 2 – Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 4: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Mix well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Slowly add the cornstarch slurry while stirring to thicken the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency.
Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
- Carefully add the cooked meatballs into the sauce, stirring gently to coat each meatball evenly.
- Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 3–5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the Sour Meatballs hot over steamed rice, noodles, or even alongside roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Helpful Tips for Making Sour Meatballs
- Uniform size: Make sure your meatballs are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Moisture matters: Do not overmix the meat; it keeps your meatballs tender.
- Flavor boost: For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the meatball mixture.
- Sauce variations: Add chunks of pineapple or a teaspoon of ginger for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Make ahead: Meatballs can be cooked and frozen ahead of time. Reheat in the sauce before serving for a quick meal.
Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving, 4 servings total)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sodium: 550mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The magic of these Sour Meatballs lies in the balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The meatballs are tender and juicy, while the sauce brings a vibrant, zesty touch that’s irresistible. Whether for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep, this recipe delivers both flavor and comfort.
Conclusion
If you’ve been looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple yet flavorful, these Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a perfect choice. From the juicy meatballs to the tangy, glossy sauce, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
