Description
Juicy sweet and sour meatballs coated in a tangy, savory sauce are perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer. Ready in under an hour, this family-friendly recipe is easy, customizable, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef (or combination of meats)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and fully cooked.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens (1-2 minutes).
- Combine:
- Add baked meatballs to the saucepan, tossing to coat.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve:
- Enjoy as an appetizer or over rice/noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
For a spicier sauce, add chili flakes or sriracha.
Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari for a gluten-free version.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
