If you want an easy party or weeknight dish that tastes sweet and a little spicy, this crockpot meatball recipe is simple and fast.
introduction
This Sweet chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe uses frozen meatballs, sweet chili sauce, grape jelly, and pineapple. The slow cooker melts the jelly and blends flavors. You can set it and leave it. For more easy meal ideas, see this easy dinner ideas collection.
why make this recipe
Make this when you need a quick appetizer or a main you can leave to cook. It needs very little work. Guests like the sweet and spicy taste. You can make it for a party, potluck, or simple family dinner. It pairs well with simple sides like rice or bread and simple desserts like a simple party dessert.
how to make Sweet chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
This recipe has four main steps: add meatballs, add sauces and fruit, stir, then cook. You do not need to thaw the meatballs first. Stir gently so the sauce coats all meatballs. For short cook time, use high for 1-2 hours; for low heat, cook 3-4 hours. If you want to try a shorter prep guide, look at a quick prep steps for other simple recipes.
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)
Directions :
Place the frozen meatballs in your crockpot and add the sweet red chili sauce.
Next, add in the grape jelly and drained pineapple tidbits.
Stir everything together to coat the meatballs evenly.
Cover and cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours. Uncover and stir again before serving.
how to serve Sweet chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
Serve warm from the crockpot. Use a spoon or slotted spoon to plate meatballs. Serve over white or brown rice, with toothpicks for a party, or next to rolls for sandwiches. A light green salad or simple bread like a sweet quick bread works well.
how to store Sweet chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
Let the meatballs cool to room temperature, then put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 3-4 days. For longer keep, freeze in a freezer-safe container up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in a saucepan on low heat or in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Sweet chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
- Use fully cooked frozen meatballs for less work.
- Stir once or twice while cooking so the sauce covers the meatballs.
- Drain the pineapple to keep sauce from getting too thin.
- If you like more heat, add a little chili sauce or crushed red pepper.
- To thicken the sauce, cook uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes.
variation (if any)
- Use fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned for more texture.
- Swap grape jelly for apricot or peach jam for a different fruit note.
- Add a splash of soy sauce for salt depth.
- Use turkey or vegetarian meatballs for a different protein.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
A: Yes. If you use raw homemade meatballs, brown them first or increase cook time until fully done.
Q: Can I make this on the stove?
A: Yes. Combine ingredients in a large pan, simmer on low, and cook until meatballs are heated through and sauce thickens.
Q: How do I make the sauce less sweet?
A: Reduce the grape jelly by a few tablespoons and add a little vinegar or lime juice to balance sweetness.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes. Use a larger crockpot or two slow cookers and keep the same ratios.
Conclusion
This Sweet chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe is an easy, sweet, and slightly spicy dish that works for parties or weeknights. For another slow-cooker meatball idea with similar sweet and spicy notes, see Sweet & Spicy Slow Cooker Meatballs – Tornadough Alli. If you want a quick guide with similar ingredients and tips, check this Crockpot Sweet Chili Meatballs · Easy Family Recipes.
Sweet Chili Meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 48 ounces Bag of fully cooked frozen Homestyle Meatballs Use fully cooked for less work.
- 12 ounces Sweet red chili sauce (e.g., Thai Kitchen)
- 20 ounces Grape jelly
- 20 ounces Can of Pineapple tidbits (drained) Drained to prevent sauce from getting too thin.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the frozen meatballs in your crockpot.
- Add the sweet red chili sauce to the meatballs.
- Next, add in the grape jelly and drained pineapple tidbits.
- Stir everything together to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Cover and cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours.
- Uncover and stir again before serving.
