Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe

Sweet Chili Meatballs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy chili sauce. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or an effortless dinner, this crockpot recipe is a hands-off way to prepare a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Effort: The crockpot does all the work for you.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A versatile dish that’s great for appetizers or main courses.
• Flavorful Sauce: Sweet, tangy, and a touch of spice for the perfect balance.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add extra ingredients to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Easy to keep warm and serve directly from the crockpot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper

Alternatively, use frozen pre-made meatballs for convenience.

For the Sauce:

• Sweet chili sauce
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Brown sugar
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Garlic, minced
• Optional: red pepper flakes (for extra heat)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

Directions

this recipe

Make the Meatballs (If Not Using Pre-Made):

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
3. Pre-Cook Meatballs: Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and partially cooked.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Assemble in the Crockpot:

1. Layer Meatballs: Place pre-made or cooked meatballs in the crockpot.
2. Add Sauce: Pour the sweet chili sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to distribute the sauce evenly.

Serve:

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
2. Pair: Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 meatballs (serves 4-6 as a main or 8-10 as an appetizer)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
• Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of ground ginger to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meatballs and ensure the sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
• Tangy Twist: Add a tablespoon of lime juice or orange juice for a citrusy flavor.
• Hawaiian Style: Include pineapple chunks in the crockpot for a tropical touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, frozen pre-made meatballs are a great time-saver and work perfectly in this recipe.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the crockpot. Cook on high for 15 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to hold the additional meatballs and sauce.

What type of sweet chili sauce should I use?

Any store-bought sweet chili sauce works, or you can make your own for a personalized flavor.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer the meatballs and sauce in a large pot over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder sauce, or add more for extra heat.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Can I use turkey or chicken meatballs?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter but equally delicious alternative.

How do I keep the meatballs warm for serving?

Set the crockpot to the “warm” setting and serve directly from the pot.

What’s the best way to prevent meatballs from falling apart?

Mix the meatball ingredients gently but thoroughly and avoid overhandling the mixture. Pre-cooking them helps them hold their shape.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Meatballs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and flavorful sauce, these crockpot meatballs are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, customize the flavors to your liking, and enjoy this deliciously easy recipe!

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