Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot

Name: Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup sweet chili sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a deliciously simple and mouthwatering dish with these Sweet Chili Meatballs made in a convenient crockpot. Perfectly tender meatballs are coated in a vibrant sweet and spicy glaze, making them an ideal appetizer for gatherings or a satisfying main course for busy weeknights. Let the slow cooker do the work while you savor the delightful flavors that everyone will love!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-11-29T13:17:21.865Z

Perfect for Every Occasion

Sweet Chili Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for a variety of gatherings. Whether you're hosting a party, watching the big game, or having a family dinner, these meatballs fit seamlessly into any menu. Their sweet and spicy flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone at your table will be satisfied.

Aside from being a delightful appetizer, these meatballs can also serve as a hearty main dish. Pair them with rice or noodles, and you've got a complete meal that requires minimal effort. The versatility of these sweet chili meatballs makes them a staple recipe to keep in your cooking repertoire.

Effortless Cooking with a Crockpot

One of the biggest advantages of using a crockpot is the convenience it offers. Just mix the ingredients, mold the meatballs, and let the slow cooker do the rest. This hands-off approach means you can spend more time with your guests or attend to other tasks without worrying about meal prep.

Slow cooking not only simplifies the cooking process, but it also enhances the flavor of the meatballs. As they cook, the sweet chili sauce seeps into every bite, creating incredibly tender and flavorful meatballs. Even a novice cook can create a standout dish with minimal effort!

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this Sweet Chili Meatballs recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to mix up the seasonings or add different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the heat.

You can also experiment with different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef, offering a lighter option that still delivers on taste. The sauce is also versatile; you can mix in pineapple juice for an extra layer of sweetness or try adding fresh herbs for a unique twist.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1 cup sweet chili sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and shape into meatballs.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes.

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the meatballs in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve the meatballs warm as an appetizer or over rice for a main dish.

Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Chili Meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a cozy gathering, consider serving them with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce. This makes for a perfect finger food that guests can enjoy while mingling. For a more substantial meal, serve the meatballs over jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a satisfying dinner.

To elevate your presentation, garnish the finished dish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. This simple addition not only adds a touch of elegance but also a burst of color that will impress your guests.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Sweet Chili Meatballs can be a delicious meal option for the next few days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. They freeze well and can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

When reheating, add a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent the meatballs from drying out. This simple trick will keep the meatballs moist, ensuring that they taste just as fantastic as when they were first cooked.

Nutritional Information

These Sweet Chili Meatballs not only provide incredible flavor, but they also offer a good balance of nutrients. Ground beef is a great source of protein, while the breadcrumbs add a bit of fiber to the mix. The sweet chili sauce provides a delightful sweetness, which can be better than several types of sugar-laden sauces typically found in store-bought products.

To make the dish more nutritious, consider adding diced vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to the meatball mixture. This will boost the fiber content and make the dish even more satisfying. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some extra veggies, especially for picky eaters!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Sweet Chili Meatballs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.