Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot

Name: Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup sweet chili sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp sriracha (optional for extra heat)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your dinner game with these Sweet Chili Meatballs made effortlessly in your crockpot. Bursting with a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, these tender meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. Serve them at your next gathering or enjoy a cozy night in with this easy-to-make recipe that will become a family favorite.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-28T11:56:39.059Z

Deliciously Versatile

One of the best features of these Sweet Chili Meatballs is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a stand-alone dinner, serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering, or even toss them in a wrap for a satisfying lunch. The sweet and spicy flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults alike, making them a hit for any occasion. Experiment with different side dishes to complement these meatballs, and watch them become a staple at your table.

Additionally, this crockpot recipe allows for a hands-free cooking experience. Just prepare your ingredients, let the crockpot do the work, and you’ll have tender, flavorful meatballs ready to serve without the fuss. This method of slow cooking enhances the flavors, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking for a dish that works well for meal prep, these Sweet Chili Meatballs are an excellent choice. They store beautifully in the fridge and can also be frozen for later use. Simply make a double batch, and you'll have meals ready to go for busy weeknights. Pack them in lunchboxes with rice, vegetables, or noodles for a nutritious and filling meal. The flavors will continue to meld and develop even after they’ve been refrigerated or frozen, making them just as tasty days later.

When stored correctly, these meatballs can last up to three days in the refrigerator or several months in the freezer. Just reheat them in the microwave or oven, and they’ll taste as good as fresh.

Customizable for Your Taste

One of the joys of making your own meatballs is the ability to customize the flavors to suit your taste. While this recipe highlights a delightful sweet chili flavor, you can tweak it by adding herbs or spices that you love. Consider incorporating fresh basil, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. You can also adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of sriracha in the sauce or using a different type of chili sauce.

If you're looking to make these meatballs a bit healthier, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef. These alternatives can create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. The addition of finely chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, can also help boost the nutritional profile of your meatballs.

Ingredients

Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Sauce

1 cup sweet chili sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sriracha (optional for extra heat)

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and form into balls.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha.

Cook in Crockpot

Place the meatballs in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

Serve

Once done, serve the meatballs hot with your choice of side.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these Sweet Chili Meatballs, the possibilities are endless. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with jasmine rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables. The honey-like sweetness of the chili sauce offsets the savory flavors of the meatballs, creating a delightful harmony on your plate. Alternatively, serve them on a bed of noodles for a comforting dish, or pile them onto sliders for a fun twist at your next get-together.

For an appetizer setting, skewering the meatballs and serving them with toothpicks can add a festive touch. You might even want to accompany them with a dipping sauce made from leftover chili sauce mixed with sour cream or yogurt for a cooling contrast.

Storage Tips

To ensure that your Sweet Chili Meatballs maintain their flavor and texture when storing, it's best to allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. If you're freezing them, consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Labeling your containers with dates can help you keep track of freshness. This simple practice helps you always enjoy a delicious meal at your convenience.

While reheating, it's best to do so gently. Utilize your oven or stovetop for the best results, and add a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. Microwaving is convenient, but be cautious not to overcook, as that can make the meatballs dry.

Nutritional Information

These Sweet Chili Meatballs not only pack a flavor punch but also provide a good balance of macronutrients. Ground meat offers ample protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, making these meatballs a fantastic option for active individuals. The added breadcrumbs and cheese contribute carbohydrates, providing the necessary energy for your day.

While the sweet chili sauce adds a hint of sugar, using high-quality sauces can keep excess sugars in check. You can further modify the recipe for a healthier version such as using whole-wheat breadcrumbs or even cauliflower rice. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal that aligns with your dietary goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Add more sriracha to the sauce or include red pepper flakes in the meatball mixture.