Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
Introduction
This Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot recipe is an effortless crowd-pleaser, combining savory meatballs with a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for parties or easy weeknight dinners, it requires minimal prep and delivers big flavor.
Ingredients
- 48-ounce bag of fully cooked frozen homestyle meatballs
- 12 ounces sweet red chili sauce (we use Thai Kitchen)
- 20 ounces grape jelly
- 20-ounce can of pineapple tidbits (drained)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the frozen meatballs in your crockpot and add the sweet red chili sauce.
- Step 2: Next, add in the grape jelly and drained pineapple tidbits.
- Step 3: Stir everything together to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours. Uncover and stir again before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a splash of sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce before cooking.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks if you prefer a chunkier texture and a fresher flavor.
- Serve over steamed rice or alongside rice noodles to soak up the sauce.
- To keep meatballs moist, avoid lifting the crockpot lid frequently during cooking.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain sauciness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade or freshly cooked meatballs. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding to the crockpot to avoid any food safety issues.
Can this recipe be made in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function to combine the ingredients, then cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for best results.
PrintSweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
This Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe combines tender, fully cooked meatballs with a delightful blend of sweet red chili sauce, grape jelly, and pineapple tidbits. Slow-cooked to perfection, this easy-to-make dish offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, ideal for parties, appetizers, or a hassle-free meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 48-ounce bag of fully cooked frozen homestyle meatballs
Sauce
- 12 ounces sweet red chili sauce (Thai Kitchen recommended)
- 20 ounces grape jelly
- 20-ounce can pineapple tidbits, drained
Instructions
- Prepare Meatballs: Place the frozen fully cooked meatballs into your crockpot, ensuring they are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the sweet red chili sauce, then add the grape jelly and the drained pineapple tidbits over the meatballs.
- Mix Ingredients: Gently stir all ingredients together in the crockpot until the meatballs are evenly coated with the sweet and spicy sauce mixture.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to heat through thoroughly.
- Final Stir and Serve: Uncover the crockpot, stir the meatballs once more to redistribute the sauce, and serve warm as a delightful appetizer or main dish.
Notes
- Use fully cooked frozen meatballs for convenience and optimal texture.
- Drain the pineapple tidbits well to avoid excess liquid diluting the sauce.
- Feel free to adjust cooking time depending on crockpot model and temperature settings.
- This recipe can be kept warm in the crockpot for up to 2 hours after cooking.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy appetizer-style eating or over rice for a complete meal.
Keywords: sweet chili meatballs, crockpot meatballs, slow cooker meatballs, easy party appetizers, sweet and spicy meatballs
