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introduction

This recipe makes sweet, sticky meatballs in a crockpot. The sauce mixes pineapple, grape jelly, and sweet red chili sauce. It cooks slowly and tastes good warm. If you like easy meatball dishes, try this other simple pork meatball idea for a full meal with mash: pork meatballs with sweet potato mash.

why make this recipe

It is very easy and needs little work.
You use frozen meatballs and a slow cooker.
The sauce is sweet, tangy, and a bit spicy.
It works for parties, game day, or a simple dinner.

how to make Sweet Chili Meatballs

You make the sauce first by mixing pineapple, grape jelly, and sweet red chili sauce. Then add frozen meatballs and cook low for 4 hours. The meatballs soak up the sweet and spicy sauce. Stir gently so the meatballs do not break.

Ingredients :

1 20 ounce can Pineapple tidbits
20 oz Grape jelly
12 oz Sweet Red chili sauce
1 48 ounce Bag Homestyle meatballs, fully cooked frozen

Directions :

In a crockpot, combine the pineapple tidbits (with juice), grape jelly, and sweet red chili sauce. Stir until well mixed.
Add the frozen meatballs to the mixture and stir gently to coat.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
Once done, serve warm as an appetizer or main dish.

how to serve Sweet Chili Meatballs

Serve them warm from the crockpot. They work as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a main dish. For a side, try simple fries or a vegetable. For example, pair them with crunchy air fryer sweet potato fries for a nice mix of sweet and salty.

how to store Sweet Chili Meatballs

Let cool to room temperature.
Put leftovers in an airtight container.
Store in the fridge up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on low in a pot until warm.
For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Sweet Chili Meatballs

Use frozen, fully cooked meatballs to save time.
Stir gently to keep meatballs whole.
If sauce is too thin after cooking, cook uncovered on high for 15–20 minutes to thicken.
If you like more heat, add a little hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Taste the sauce before adding meatballs and adjust sweetness or spice.

variation (if any)

Add chopped bell pepper or onion to the crockpot for more texture.
Swap pineapple tidbits for crushed pineapple for a smoother sauce.
Use barbecue sauce instead of grape jelly for a smoky flavor.
Make a less sweet version by using less grape jelly and more chili sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh meatballs?
A: Yes. If they are raw, brown them first and cook longer until done.

Q: Can I make this on the stove?
A: Yes. Warm the sauce in a pot, add meatballs, and simmer for 20–30 minutes until hot.

Q: How do I make the sauce less sweet?
A: Reduce the grape jelly or use a low-sugar jelly. Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice for balance.

Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger crockpot and keep the same cook time, but stir once or twice.

Q: Is this good for parties?
A: Yes. Keep the crockpot on warm and guests can serve themselves.

Conclusion

This Sweet Chili Meatballs recipe is easy and great for many occasions. For another simple sweet and savory meatball take, see the Olive and Artisan version for more ideas: Olive and Artisan Sweet Chili Meatballs recipe. If you want a bowl version with rice and greens, try the sweet chili meatball rice bowls by Caroline Chambers for serving ideas: Sweet Chili Meatball Rice Bowls | Caroline Chambers.