Sweet chili meatballs are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them a delightful addition to any gathering. This crockpot recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to serve a delicious dish with minimal effort. Simply set it up and let the slow cooker do the work, filling your home with tantalizing aromas that will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime.

Why Make This Recipe

Making sweet chili meatballs in a crockpot is an excellent choice for busy families or anyone who loves to entertain. This recipe requires only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, making it a stress-free option for gatherings, game days, or weeknight dinners. The slow cooking method allows the meatballs to soak in all the flavor, ensuring that every bite is a tasty experience. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

How to Make Sweet Chili Meatballs

To create this irresistible dish, follow the simple steps outlined below.

Ingredients:

48-ounce bag of fully cooked frozen homestyle meatballs
12 ounces sweet red chili sauce (we recommend Thai Kitchen)
20 ounces grape jelly
20-ounce can of pineapple tidbits (drained)

Directions:

Place the frozen meatballs in your crockpot.
Add the sweet red chili sauce on top of the meatballs.
Next, incorporate the grape jelly and the drained pineapple tidbits.
Stir everything together to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours.
Uncover and stir again before serving to ensure they’re well coated.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Meatballs

Serving sweet chili meatballs is easy and versatile. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer at parties or served over rice or noodles for a meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color. Using toothpicks makes it easy for guests to grab them while mingling, turning them into the perfect finger food.

How to Store

If you have leftovers, you can store sweet chili meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them back in the crockpot on low until warmed through or use the microwave. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Tips to Make

For an extra kick, add a dash of sriracha sauce to the mix.
Experiment with different brands of sweet chili sauce or jelly to find your favorite combination.
If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth while cooking.

Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. You could switch the meatballs for turkey or veggie versions for lighter options. Adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or even jalapeños can give the dish an additional layer of flavor and texture. Alternatively, make a Hawaiian version by including coconut and chopped macadamia nuts for a tropical twist!

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! Homemade meatballs can work just as well; just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It depends on the brand of meatballs and sauces you use. Check labels for gluten-containing ingredients if you’re catering to gluten-free diets.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just transfer it to the crockpot and start cooking!