Sweet and Sour Crock Pot Meatballs

I remember a rainy Tuesday when my kitchen felt like a sanctuary from the storm outside. I stumbled upon a jar of peach preserves in the back of the pantry and wondered if it would work with meatballs. The resulting sauce was so vibrant and glossy that it immediately brightened my mood. Now this scent always reminds me of turning a dull day into something festive.

I brought a double batch of these to my sisters house warming party last autumn. By the time I finished hanging up my coat half the crock pot was already empty. People were using their fingers to get the last bits of sauce which is the ultimate compliment.

Ingredients

• Frozen Meatballs: Choosing a high quality beef or turkey blend ensures they stay juicy during the long simmer.
• Peach or Apricot Preserves: These fruit bases provide a sophisticated sweetness and a gorgeous glossy finish to the dish.
• Ketchup: This humble pantry staple adds the necessary acidity and tomato body to the sauce.
• Soy Sauce: A splash of this provides the savory umami depth that balances the fruity sugar.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The sharp tang cuts through the richness of the meat for a balanced bite.
• Brown Sugar: A small amount helps the sauce thicken and caramelize as it heats.
• Garlic Powder and Ground Ginger: These aromatics give the sauce its classic sweet and sour personality.

Instructions

Whisk the sauce:

Combine the preserves and spices in a bowl until the mixture is thick and mostly smooth.

Layer the pot:

Toss the frozen meatballs into your crock pot and pour the vibrant sauce over them.

Slow cook:

Set the timer and let the meatballs absorb all those fruity juices until they are tender.

Garnish and serve:

Sprinkle the green onions over the top right before people start digging in for maximum freshness.

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There is something so satisfying about the sound of a lid lifting to reveal a bubbling pot of glazed goodness. It is the sound of an easy dinner victory.

Choosing The Best Fruit Preserves

While apricot is the classic choice I have found that peach preserves offer a milder and more floral sweetness. If you want something a bit more tart a bitter orange marmalade can also be a surprising and delicious substitute.

Making It A Full Meal

We often serve these with toothpicks at parties but they transform beautifully into a full meal when ladled over white rice. Add a side of steamed broccoli to soak up the extra sauce for a complete weeknight plate.

Simple Ways To Customize The Flavor

You can easily tweak the heat or the texture depending on who you are feeding that day. A little bit of spice goes a long way in highlighting the fruitiness of the preserves.

• Add red pepper flakes if you want a subtle back note of heat.
• Swap the meat for a plant based alternative to satisfy any vegetarian guests.
• Double the sauce if you plan on serving this over a large bed of noodles.

Save

This recipe proves that you do not need a long list of ingredients to make something memorable. I hope these meatballs bring as much joy to your table as they do to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work wonderfully. Just brown them in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker, and reduce cooking time to 2-3 hours on low since they're not fully cooked like frozen ones.

→ What other fruit preserves can I use?

Try apricot, peach, orange marmalade, or even pineapple preserves for different fruity notes. Each brings a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy sauce base.

→ How do I make this spicy?

Add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili garlic sauce to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust—the sweet sauce balances heat nicely, so you can add quite a bit without overwhelming the flavors.

→ Can I cook this on high heat?

Yes! Cook on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours instead of 3-4 hours on low. Check after 90 minutes—the meatballs should be heated through and the sauce bubbly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stovetop with a splash of water, or return to the slow cooker on warm. The sauce thickens when chilled, so add a tablespoon of water when reheating.

→ What should I serve with these meatballs?

For parties, serve with toothpicks and napkins. As a main dish, pair with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Roasted vegetables or a crisp Asian-style slaw make excellent sides to balance the sweet-tangy flavors.