Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs

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There’s something so comforting about a slow-cooked meal that fills the house with warm, savory aromas—and this Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs recipe does exactly that. I love how it combines the rich heartiness of meatballs with the vibrant tang of a sweet and sour sauce, balanced perfectly with juicy pineapple. It’s a dish that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, which makes it a favorite in my home, especially on busy weeknights.

What makes this recipe special is how versatile and forgiving it is. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty appetizer at a gathering or plating it over rice for a quick weeknight dinner, it always hits the spot. I appreciate that I can toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I get other things done. And the best part? Everyone—from picky kids to hungry adults—devours it happily.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

It’s a beautiful blend of convenience and flavor. You get tender, juicy meatballs coated in a glossy, sweet-tangy sauce, with chunks of pineapple adding that perfect burst of freshness. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this a great choice for busy days or lazy weekends. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just one pot!

What Kind of Meatballs Should I Use?

You can use homemade meatballs or frozen store-bought ones. If you’re short on time, frozen meatballs work wonderfully and hold their shape well in the slow cooker. For a more personal touch or dietary needs, making your own allows for full control over ingredients. Either way, aim for meatballs that are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot, so they soak up the sauce rather than fall apart.

Options for Substitutions

• No Pineapple? Try using peaches or mango chunks for a different fruit twist.
• Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
• No rice? Serve it over noodles, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes.
• Gluten-free? Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and meatballs.
• Low-sugar? Swap the brown sugar for a sugar substitute like monk fruit or skip it if the pineapple provides enough sweetness.

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Ingredients for this Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

• Frozen Meatballs (about 32 oz): These are the foundation of the dish—juicy, bite-sized, and perfectly seasoned to soak up all the flavor from the sauce.
• Pineapple Chunks (1 can, 20 oz, undrained): These add a natural sweetness and a tropical flair, while the juice enhances the sauce.
• Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): Helps balance the tanginess with a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• Rice Vinegar (1/3 cup): Offers the signature tangy punch that defines sweet and sour sauce.
• Ketchup (1/2 cup): Gives the sauce body, sweetness, and vibrant red color.
• Soy Sauce (1/4 cup): Adds a deep umami flavor that ties everything together.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Used to thicken the sauce during the final stage of cooking.
• Water (2 tablespoons): Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening.
• Cooked White Rice (for serving): Fluffy rice to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.

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Step 1: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the pineapple chunks with juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth. This forms the flavorful base that will soak into the meatballs during cooking.

Step 2: Add Meatballs to the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them. Just spread them out evenly in a single layer to ensure they all get coated by the sauce.

Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over

Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs, making sure they’re well-covered. Use a spoon to gently toss and coat them if needed.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. The meatballs will heat through and absorb all the sweet and sour flavors as they simmer gently.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

About 15 minutes before serving, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Pour it into the slow cooker and stir well. This will thicken the sauce into that classic glossy finish. Let it cook uncovered for the final 15 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the meatballs and sauce over a bed of freshly cooked white rice. Make sure to get some pineapple chunks in every serving for that sweet burst of flavor.

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How Long to Prepare the Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Preparation for this dish is impressively quick—just about 10 minutes. Since you’re using pre-cooked frozen meatballs, there’s no need for browning or baking ahead. Most of the prep time is simply mixing the sauce ingredients and assembling everything in the slow cooker.

The cooking time depends on your slow cooker setting. On low, the dish takes about 4 to 5 hours, which is perfect if you’re prepping earlier in the day. On high, it’s ready in 2 to 3 hours—a great option if you need dinner in a hurry. Either way, minimal effort yields a meal bursting with flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Meatballs

• Use quality meatballs: The better the meatballs, the better the final flavor and texture. Homemade or high-quality frozen ones are ideal.
• Don’t skip the pineapple juice: It’s essential for the sauce’s flavor—don’t drain it off.
• Let the sauce thicken uncovered: During the last 15 minutes, open the lid to let steam escape, which helps the cornstarch slurry do its job.
• Stir gently: Once the sauce thickens, give it a gentle stir to coat all the meatballs evenly without breaking them.
• Taste before serving: Adjust sweetness or saltiness at the end by adding more sugar or soy sauce, depending on your preference.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking on high: Even frozen meatballs can dry out if overcooked—stick to the time range.
• Not stirring in the slurry properly: It can clump if not mixed evenly. Whisk it well before pouring in.
• Skipping the thickening step: The sauce won’t have that rich, sticky consistency without the slurry.
• Using raw meatballs: Unless pre-cooked, raw ones need to be cooked beforehand to avoid safety issues.
• Adding rice too early: Only add rice when serving. Adding it to the slow cooker can make it mushy.

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What to Serve With Sweet and Sour Meatballs?

1. Steamed White or Jasmine Rice

Perfect for soaking up the tangy, sticky sauce.

2. Stir-Fried Vegetables

A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots complements the dish.

3. Garlic Noodles

Adds a rich, savory contrast to the sweet sauce.

4. Cucumber Salad

Light and refreshing, it balances the richness of the meatballs.

5. Fried Rice

Turn it into a full Asian-inspired spread by pairing with egg-fried rice.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water if needed.

Freezer: This recipe freezes beautifully. Let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Warm slowly on the stove or microwave to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugars: 21g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with homemade meatballs?

Yes! Just pre-cook them before adding to the slow cooker to ensure they hold up in the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The sweet sauce and tender meatballs are a big hit with kids.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough. You might need to extend the cook time slightly.

Can I make it spicier?

Of course! Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños for a heat kick.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Try them in a sub roll for a sweet and savory meatball sandwich.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs are the perfect solution for a no-fuss meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you get a family-friendly dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and adaptable to your taste. Whether served over rice, noodles, or even on their own, these meatballs are bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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