Save to Pinterest There is nothing quite like a recipe that takes five minutes of preparation but yields a dish that tastes like it spent all day simmering. These Easy Sweet and Sour Crock Pot Meatballs are a perfect example of low-effort, high-reward cooking. Combining the convenience of frozen meatballs with a vibrant, tangy sauce made from fruit preserves, this dish is a versatile addition to any recipe box, serving equally well as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main course.
Save to Pinterest The magic happens as the meatballs slow-cook in the glaze. The sauce thickens into a glossy, sticky coating that clings to every bite, while the meatballs stay tender and juicy. It’s a classic American flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a reliable choice for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900 g) frozen fully cooked meatballs
- 1 cup (320 g) peach or apricot preserves
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon (2.5 g) garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (1.5 g) ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the peach or apricot preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 2
- Place the frozen meatballs in the bowl of a 4–6 quart crock pot.
- Step 3
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Step 4
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5–2 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Step 5
- Stir gently before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Step 6
- Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, or over rice for a main dish.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, make sure to use a 4–6 quart crock pot so the meatballs are sufficiently covered by the sauce. If you have the time, cooking on the LOW setting for the full 4 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meatballs. Always stir gently before serving to redistribute the glaze without breaking the tender meatballs.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly customizable. For a spicier kick, add 1–2 teaspoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. If you want a different fruity profile, try substituting orange preserves for the peach or apricot ones. For a lighter version of this dish, turkey or chicken meatballs work exceptionally well.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these meatballs directly from the slow cooker on the "warm" setting if hosting a party, providing toothpicks for guests to help themselves. For a complete family meal, serve the glazed meatballs over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa, and garnish generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Save to Pinterest Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a busy Tuesday night, these Easy Sweet and Sour Crock Pot Meatballs deliver consistent, delicious results with almost no effort. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work beautifully in this sauce. Just ensure they're fully cooked before adding to the slow cooker, and adjust cooking time to 2-3 hours on LOW to heat them through and let them absorb the sauce flavors.
- → What other fruit preserves can I use?
While peach and apricot preserves create the classic flavor, you can experiment with orange marmalade for a citrusy twist, raspberry preserves for a tart variation, or even pineapple preserves for a tropical touch. Each brings a unique sweetness profile.
- → Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Place meatballs and sauce in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly. This method reduces the cooking time significantly.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. They freeze well for up to 3 months.
- → What can I serve with these meatballs?
For appetizers, serve with toothpicks and napkins. As a main dish, they're delicious over steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice, or mashed potatoes. They also pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a crisp Asian-style slaw.
- → How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha, sambal oelek, or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture. For a milder heat, add crushed red pepper flakes starting with 1/4 teaspoon and adjusting to taste. The spice balances beautifully with the sweet preserves.