Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This sweet and sour meatballs crock pot recipe is your answer. It's the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with tender meatballs simmered to perfection in a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form the meatballs:
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. For even cooking, try to make them roughly the same size.
Simmer in the slow cooker:
- Place the meatballs in your slow cooker.
Prepare the sweet and sour sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce.
Combine and cook:
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Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Add the drained pineapple chunks.
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Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Thicken the sauce (optional):
- For a thicker sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serve and enjoy!
- Serve the sweet and sour meatballs over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing the meat mixture can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the meatballs are cooked through by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the sweetness and sourness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. If you prefer a more tangy sauce, add more apple cider vinegar.
- Add vegetables: For a healthier and more flavorful meal, add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli florets to the slow cooker along with the meatballs.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Teriyaki Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Substitute teriyaki sauce for some of the ketchup and soy sauce for a unique Asian-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This delicious and easy recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. Enjoy!