These sweet chili meatballs are a fun and tasty treat! Made with juicy meatballs cooked in a luscious sweet and spicy chili sauce, they’re perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
Cooking them in a crockpot means minimal fuss! I love just tossing everything in and letting it work its magic while I relax. Plus, they can be enjoyed with toothpicks for easy snacking. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use a mix of beef and pork for flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can work too for a leaner option. Just remember, different meats will give different tastes!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats. I also sometimes use crushed crackers for a different texture!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the star! If you want to make it spicier, consider adding some Thai chili paste or more sriracha. If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, make a quick substitute with ketchup mixed with sugar and a splash of vinegar.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth of flavor. Use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. The meatballs will still taste amazing!
Red Bell Pepper: Fresh bell pepper adds crunch and flavor. If bell peppers aren’t your thing, you might try diced carrots or even water chestnuts for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Stay Tender?
To keep meatballs tender, the mixing process is key. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients just until they’re mixed.
- Shape the meatballs with wet hands to prevent sticking.
- If you choose to brown them first, do so quickly. You’re not cooking them through; just adding color.
- Cook them in the crockpot without overcrowding. Spacing them out helps them to cook evenly.
These tips will help you get delicious, tender meatballs every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional for extra heat)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (for garnish and flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes for prep time, and the cook time in the crockpot is 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat; we want tender meatballs!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate while you prepare the rest.
3. (Optional) Brown the Meatballs:
If you’d like a firmer texture and a nice brown color, heat a skillet over medium heat, and brown the meatballs in a bit of oil for around 3-4 minutes per side. If you want to skip this step for easier cooking, you can toss them straight into the crockpot!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, and sriracha (if you’re using it). This sweet and spicy sauce is what brings everything together!
5. Combine in the Crockpot:
Place the shaped meatballs into the crockpot, and then pour the sauce mixture over them. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
6. Add Bell Peppers:
Sprinkle the sliced red bell pepper on top of the meatballs. This will add color and an extra layer of flavor!
7. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the meatballs for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying main dish!
Enjoy your sweet and tangy chili meatballs, full of flavor and so easy to make in the crockpot!
img src=”https://foodiefiber.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sweet-chili-meatballs-crockpot-recipe.webp” alt=””>
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences. Just adjust cooking times as needed, especially for leaner meats that may cook faster.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Spicier?
If you like extra heat, simply add more sriracha or chili sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture for an additional kick!
Can I Prepare These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time! Form the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to keep them moist!
