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 breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup sweet chili sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for extra heat)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your dinner routine with these easy and flavorful Sweet Chili Meatballs cooked in a slow cooker. Perfectly tender meatballs are coated in a delicious, sweet and spicy chili sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with rice or as a tasty appetizer.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-11-13T07:31:42.905Z

This dish brings together the perfect combination of flavors and convenience. Using a slow cooker not only allows for a hands-off cooking experience, but also ensures that the meatballs are infused with the sweet and spicy sauce, making them incredibly tender and flavorful.

The Perfect Dinner Option

Preparing a meal that is both delicious and easy can often feel like a daunting task, especially on busy weeknights. Fortunately, these Sweet Chili Meatballs cooked in a crockpot are here to save the day. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that is not only satisfying but also flexible enough to suit various palates. The unique balance of sweet and spicy flavors will keep your family intrigued and eager for dinner.

This recipe transforms traditional meatballs into something exceptional. The slow cooking process allows the flavors of the sweet chili sauce to infuse into the meatballs, creating a tender bite that is bursting with flavor. The ease of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, freeing you up to focus on other tasks or just unwind after a long day.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Sweet Chili Meatballs can be served in various ways, making them suitable for any occasion. For a cozy family dinner, serve them over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the meatballs to soak into the grains and create a delightful flavor profile. The sauce adds moisture, transforming the rice into a flavorful side that complements the meat perfectly.

If you’re entertaining guests, consider serving these meatballs as an appetizer. Skewer them with toothpicks for easy handling, and encourage your guests to relish the sweet and spicy taste. Pair with a fresh salad or crunchy veggies to create a balanced spread that will impress everyone at your gathering.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb 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
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

1 cup sweet chili sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for extra heat)

Mix all ingredients well and prepare to cook.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined and form into tablespoon-sized meatballs.

Make the Sauce

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

Combine in the Slow Cooker

Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Serve

Serve the meatballs over rice or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Enjoy your delicious Sweet Chili Meatballs!

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best features of this Sweet Chili Meatball recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily batch-cook the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, allowing you to portion out meals for the week. Simply store the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they can last for up to five days. Each day, heat a serving for lunch or dinner and serve it over rice or noodles for a quick meal.

For those who prefer freezing meals, these meatballs freeze exceptionally well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in freezer bags or containers. You can pull out a batch whenever you need a hassle-free dinner option. Just reheat and enjoy a flavorful meal any day of the week!

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking to make this recipe a bit healthier while still maintaining great flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. These alternatives can reduce calories and fat, while still delivering delicious results. Additionally, swapping traditional breadcrumbs for whole grain or almond flour can also enhance the nutritional value without sacrificing taste.

The sauce can be easily adjusted to meet dietary needs too. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium content, or use coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative. You can experiment with different levels of spiciness in the sauce, adjusting the sriracha based on personal preference. This flexibility makes the dish adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are great served over rice, in a sub sandwich, or as a standalone appetizer.