These sweet and sour meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a glossy sauce made with pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. It’s a comforting yet vibrant dish that works beautifully for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers classic sweet and sour flavor with a homemade touch. The meatballs stay moist, the sauce is rich and balanced, and the pineapple adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and pairs well with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

• 500 g ground beef or ground chicken
• 1 large egg
• 60 g breadcrumbs
• 60 ml milk
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying

For the sweet and sour sauce:

• 240 ml pineapple juice
• 120 ml ketchup
• 60 ml rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 80 g granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

For the vegetables:

• 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 2 cm pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 2 cm pieces

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, grated onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 3 cm in diameter.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce.
5. Pour the sauce into the same pan and bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. Mix the cornstarch with water, then stir it into the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
7. Add the pineapple chunks and bell peppers to the sauce and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
8. Return the meatballs to the pan and gently stir to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and the flavors are well combined.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add sliced carrots or snap peas for extra vegetables.
• Reduce the sugar slightly for a more tangy sauce.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a small splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 200°C for about 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works well. Just be sure to use pineapple juice from the can for the sauce.

What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?

They pair perfectly with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze the cooked meatballs with sauce for up to 2 months in a sealed container.

How do I keep meatballs tender?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and use milk-soaked breadcrumbs for moisture.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Add a little more cornstarch mixed with water and simmer briefly until desired thickness.

Can I make this dish less sweet?

Reduce the sugar by 1–2 tablespoons and increase the vinegar slightly.

Are fresh bell peppers necessary?

Fresh bell peppers give the best texture, but frozen peppers can be used in a pinch.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken works very well and keeps the meatballs light and juicy.

Conclusion

Sweet and sour meatballs with pineapple and bell pepper are a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together comforting textures and bright, bold flavors. Easy to prepare and adaptable to different tastes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.

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