These Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs are tangy, colorful, and bursting with flavor—perfect over rice or served as an easy appetizer.

One of my go-to dishes at Chinese restaurants is sweet and sour chicken or pork—so I figured, why not try that same flavorful combo with frozen meatballs? The result is a delicious blend of tangy sauce, juicy pineapple, and tender bell peppers that’s hard to beat.

Serve these sweet and sour meatballs over rice for a satisfying meal, or keep it simple and serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Made in the crockpot with minimal prep, it’s an easy dish that delivers big flavor!

Key Ingredients:

Here is what you need to make sweet and sour meatballs. The full recipe is in the recipe card below the images.

• Meatballs – Frozen homestyle meatballs. You can also use homemade meatballs. If you go the homemade route, use lean ground beef and cook them first. We also use these meatballs in our honey garlic meatballs recipe.
• Sweet and Sour Sauce – Look for a jar of Sun Luck brand, P.F. Changs brand. Or a can of Contadina Sweet and Sour Sauce. I find these in the Asian section of the store.
• Pineapple – Use pineapple chunks, not tidbits, if possible.
• Bell Pepper – One red bell pepepr and one green bell pepper.
• Baby Corn – Find these in the Asian section of the store. Drain well.
• Water Chestnuts – You will find these in the Asain section as well. Drain well. This adds crunch to the meal.
• Seasonings – Freshly minced garlic and red pepper flakes. (The full recipe is in the recipe card below the images).

How to Make Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Step One – Place frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.

Step Two – Next, add the pineapple, green peppers, and other vegetables. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes.

Step Three – Pour sauce over everything. Stir to coat the meatballs and vegetables in the sauce.

Step Four – Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or low for 5 hours, stirring occasionally. Serve and enjoy! (They can simmer until you’re ready to serve them for dinner.)

More Meatballs Recipes for your Crockpot:

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are sweet, savory, and perfect over rice. Grape Jelly Meatballs bring a classic sweet-and-tangy flavor that’s always a hit.

Apple Butter Meatballs have a cozy, fall-inspired sweetness. Salisbury Steak Meatballs are hearty and comforting with rich gravy.

Barbecue Meatballs and Baby Shower Meatballs are perfect for parties and potlucks. Jalapeño Meatballs add a spicy kick that heat lovers will enjoy.