Sweet and Sour Meatballs

These tender meatballs are smothered in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, made extra special with juicy pineapple chunks. Perfect for dinner or any gathering!

---

Yield
Serves 6–8

---

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated onion
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in heavy syrup (do not drain)
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced (optional, for added texture)

For Garnish:

• sesame seeds
• chopped green onions

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set them aside on a tray or plate.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
2. Transfer the browned meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Add the entire can of pineapple chunks with the syrup. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
2. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and mix continuously until the sauce thickens (2–3 minutes).
3. Stir in the diced bell pepper, if using, and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

1. Transfer the meatballs to the saucepan with the sweet and sour sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.
2. Cover and simmer over low heat for 10–15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the flavors have melded.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the sweet and sour meatballs hot over steamed white rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and a pop of color.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories, 375 | Fat, 17g | Saturated Fat, 6g | Carbohydrates, 37g | Fiber, 1g | Sugars, 25g | Protein, 20g

---

Kitchen Tips

1. Use pineapple chunks in heavy syrup for the best flavor and sweetness.
2. For a healthier option, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for 15–20 minutes.
3. Add other veggies like snap peas or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
4. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
5. Adjust the vinegar and sugar levels to make the sauce tangier or sweeter, based on your preference.

---

These Sweet and Sour Meatballs with juicy pineapple chunks offer the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, guaranteed to be a family favorite!