Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot

Sweet Chili Meatballs made in a crockpot are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory, all simmered into juicy, tender bites. These slow-cooked meatballs are coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce made with sweet chili sauce, garlic, and a hint of soy for depth. Ideal for parties, family dinners, or appetizer spreads, this easy crockpot dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crockpot recipe is incredibly simple—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The meatballs soak up all the sweet and spicy flavors as they cook, becoming irresistibly tender and flavorful. They are perfect as an appetizer or as a main dish served over rice or noodles. It’s also a great make-ahead option and can stay warm for hours on the “keep warm” setting, making them ideal for entertaining or potlucks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen or homemade meatballs (beef, pork, turkey, or chicken)
• Sweet chili sauce
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Green onions or fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Place frozen or cooked homemade meatballs into the crockpot.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar (if using). Add red pepper flakes for added spice, if desired.
3. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the crockpot and stir to coat evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and coated in a sticky glaze.
5. Stir gently before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes (low) or 2 hours 5 minutes (high)

Variations

• Asian Fusion: Add a dash of rice vinegar, sesame oil, or hoisin sauce.
• Tangy Twist: Stir in pineapple juice or crushed pineapple for a tropical flavor.
• Meat Choices: Use chicken, turkey, or plant-based meatballs.
• Extra Heat: Add sriracha or diced jalapeños for more spice.
• Sticky BBQ Style: Mix in some barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through or warm in a saucepan over medium heat.
You can also freeze cooked meatballs with sauce—store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, just make sure they are cooked before adding to the crockpot. This prevents them from falling apart.

What brand of sweet chili sauce works best?

Any store-bought variety works well. Choose one that suits your spice preference.

Can I cook the meatballs from frozen?

Yes, frozen meatballs can be placed directly into the crockpot—just adjust cooking time as needed.

How spicy are these meatballs?

Mild to moderate. You can increase or reduce the spice level based on your choice of sauce and added peppers.

Can I make these in the oven instead?

Yes. Combine meatballs and sauce in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.

What can I serve with sweet chili meatballs?

They go well with white rice, fried rice, noodles, or as a toothpick appetizer.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger crockpot and increase the sauce proportions accordingly.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, if using a mild sweet chili sauce. Omit extra chili flakes or hot sauce.

Can I leave them in the crockpot for a party?

Yes. Set your crockpot to the “keep warm” setting and stir occasionally.

Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes. It’s a great way to reduce salt without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Meatballs made in the crockpot are the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs are sure to win over guests with their sweet-spicy glaze and tender texture. With just a few ingredients and a hands-off cooking method, this recipe is a must-have in your entertaining or weeknight dinner rotation.

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