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Sweet and Sour Meatballs: The Perfect Tangy-Savory Bite You Didn’t Know You Needed

These Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, coated in a glossy, sticky sauce that’s delicious over rice or served as a party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  5. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
  6. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water.
  7. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5–10 minutes until well coated.
  8. Serve hot over rice or with toothpicks for appetizers.

Notes

  • Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.
  • Add pineapple chunks and bell peppers for a tropical twist.
  • Great for meal prep—freezes well.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sweet and Sour Meatballs, Party Meatballs, Tangy Meatballs, Easy Meatball Recipe, Asian Meatballs