Indulge in the irresistible balance of flavors with these savory Meatballs with Sweet Sour Sauce, a perfect fusion of tangy, sweet, and savory notes. This easy yet mouthwatering recipe features tender homemade meatballs made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic seasonings, browned to perfection for a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The star of the dish is the rich and glossy sweet-and-sour sauce, made from a harmonious blend of ketchup, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, thickened to silky perfection with a cornstarch slurry. Pair these flavorful meatballs with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner, or serve them as a standout appetizer at your next gathering. Quick to prepare and brimming with restaurant-quality flavor, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a plate or tray.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches (do not overcrowd) and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once the sauce begins to simmer, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the sweet sour sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly.
Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or as an appetizer. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Calories |
2196 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 128.0 g | 164% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.3 g | 211% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 18.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 551 mg | 184% | |
| Sodium | 6070 mg | 264% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 169.3 g | 62% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.5 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 74.9 g | ||
| Protein | 109.2 g | 218% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 201 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 14.9 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 1670 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.