Sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful dish that brings a touch of nostalgia to the dinner table. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of tender meatballs with a tangy and sweet glaze that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. The origins of sweet and sour sauce can be traced back to Chinese cuisine, but it has been embraced and adapted by many cultures, including our own Midwestern kitchens. This version is simple to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite.
These sweet and sour meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully. You can also serve them with a fresh green salad or some steamed broccoli to add a touch of color and nutrition to the meal. For a more hearty option, consider serving them with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chopped onion. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large skillet. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs.
Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you have picky eaters, consider serving the sauce on the side so they can dip the meatballs as they like. You can also add some pineapple chunks to the sauce for a fruity twist. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soy sauce.
