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Sweet-and-Sour Meatballs – A Tangy, Saucy Family Favorite

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Tender beef meatballs simmered in a tangy-sweet pineapple glaze with savory undertones — perfect over rice or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

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For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 egg

  • ¼ cup milk

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • ¼ cup onion, finely grated

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • ¾ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar or honey

  • ¼ cup rice vinegar

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • ½ cup pineapple juice

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks

  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped

  • Green onions, sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix all meatball ingredients and shape into 1.5-inch balls.

  2. Pan-sear or bake meatballs until browned and cooked through.

  3. Whisk together sauce ingredients (except slurry). Simmer in skillet.

  4. Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.

  5. Return meatballs and optional pineapple/bell peppers to sauce. Simmer 5–7 minutes.

  6. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or as appetizers.

Notes

  • Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

  • Add chili flakes for heat.

  • Store leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for later.

Find it online: https://goldenskilleteats.com/sweet-and-sour-meatballs-a-tangy-saucy-family-favorite/