Sweet & sour meatballs are a comforting, classic dish that brings together the perfect balance of tangy sweetness and savory flavors. This farmhouse-style recipe features tender homemade meatballs coated in a flavorful sweet & sour sauce, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Serve them over rice, mashed potatoes, or enjoy as an appetizer at your next event.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Sweet & Sour Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- ½ cup water
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the meatballs for 15–20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and browned on the outside. Alternatively, you can fry them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet & Sour Sauce
- While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, and mustard.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the water, then slowly add this to the saucepan to help thicken the sauce.
- Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken and bubble (about 5–7 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
- Once the meatballs are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large skillet or serving dish.
- Pour the sweet & sour sauce over the meatballs, gently stirring to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve the meatballs hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
- These meatballs also make a great appetizer served on toothpicks for a party.