If you have a craving for a dish that masterfully balances tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, look no further than this Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe. These tender, juicy meatballs are perfectly coated in a luscious sauce that hits all the right notes, making every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re planning a comforting family dinner or want to impress friends with a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, this recipe has got you covered. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to become one of your go-to classics.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind the Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role: the ground beef brings richness, the Parmesan adds a savory depth, and the blend of sauces delivers that signature sweet and tangy punch.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that keeps the meatballs moist and flavorful; ground turkey works great if you want a lighter option.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and gives them a tender bite.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty note that enhances the meat’s flavors.
1 large egg: The natural glue that holds the meat mixture together perfectly.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant aroma and savory depth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a subtle herbal touch to the meatballs.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the sweetness.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brightens up the mixture with fresh color and flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying): For browning the meatballs to perfection.
1/2 cup ketchup: The base of the sauce, providing sweetness and tomato tang.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Gives the classic sour punch essential to the sauce.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the acidity with rich sweetness.
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Adds savory umami depth to the sauce.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives complexity and a subtle tang.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional): Brings a mild sharpness that brightens the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor in the sauce.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and subtle spice.
1/4 cup water (or more): Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

How to Make Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional parsley in a large bowl. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every meatball will be tender, flavorful, and hold together beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, roll it into small, even-sized balls about one inch in diameter. This size allows for quick, even cooking and makes your Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe perfect for snacking or serving as a main dish.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully brown the meatballs, turning occasionally so every side develops a golden crust. This step locks in the juices. Alternatively, pop them into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes if you prefer baking over frying.

Step 4: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a medium saucepan, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard if using, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring often, until it thickens slightly; this intense, flavorful sauce is what makes this Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe truly special.

Step 5: Adjust Sauce Consistency

If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a splash of water to thin it out until it reaches the perfect pourable texture to coat the meatballs luxuriously.

Step 6: Coat the Meatballs

Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving dish, then gently toss them in the warm sweet and sour sauce. Make sure each meatball is evenly glazed with that irresistible sauce before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Sweet and Sour Meatballs immediately. Whether as an appetizer or over a bed of rice, they always bring smiles to the table.

How to Serve Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions adds a pop of color and fresh brightness that complements the rich flavors of the sweet and sour sauce perfectly. Toasted sesame seeds can also lend a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.

Side Dishes

For a complete and satisfying meal, serve these meatballs with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy mashed potatoes, or even a crisp Asian slaw. These sides soak up the delicious sauce and balance the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Arrange these meatballs on bamboo skewers as party bites. Or pile them on slider buns with a little extra sauce and some crunchy pickles for a fun twist. No matter how you serve them, this Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe always dazzles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve the best texture and reheat them together just before serving.

Freezing

If you want to save these for later, freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the sauce separately in small containers.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet over low-medium heat with the sauce, stirring occasionally, so they heat through without drying out. Microwave works too but do so in short intervals to keep them juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works beautifully in this Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe. Just be mindful not to overcook the turkey meatballs, as they can dry out faster than beef.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the sauce gluten-free while maintaining that delicious flavor.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce while it simmers. This will balance the sweet and sour elements with a fiery kick.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Definitely! Baking is a healthy and hands-off option. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and nicely browned.

What’s the best way to serve the leftovers?

Leftovers are versatile. Reheat the meatballs and toss them with extra sauce, then serve over rice, noodles, or even stuff them inside pita bread with fresh veggies for a quick lunch.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table. Its delightful combination of flavors, easy preparation, and flexibility to suit your preferences make it a surefire winner for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!

Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

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4.1 from 56 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (approximately 20-24 meatballs) 1x

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Description

This Sweet and Sour Meatballs recipe features tender, juicy meatballs coated in a tangy and flavorful homemade sauce. Made with ground beef and a blend of classic seasonings, these meatballs are pan-fried to perfection and then smothered in a vibrant sweet and sour sauce, making them perfect as an appetizer or a hearty main dish served over rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

Sweet and Sour Sauce

1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 cup water (or more if you prefer a thinner sauce)

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Instructions

Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter, yielding approximately 20-24 meatballs depending on size.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Alternatively, bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes if you prefer baking.
Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce: While the meatballs cook, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, and ground ginger in a medium saucepan.
Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust consistency with additional water if desired.
Coat the Meatballs: Remove cooked meatballs from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Pour the warm sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to evenly coat.
Serve: Serve the sweet and sour meatballs immediately, either as an appetizer or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or green onions if desired.