Savor the delightful combination of flavors in Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple. This dish features tender meatballs coated in a tangy and sweet sauce, paired with juicy pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe brings a touch of exotic flavor to your table. The meatballs are easy to make and bake, and the sauce comes together quickly in a skillet. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple in a bowl
Sweet and sour meatballs with pineapple in a bowl | Myhomemaderecipe.com

Savor the delightful combination of flavors in Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple. This dish features tender meatballs coated in a tangy and sweet sauce, paired with juicy pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe brings a touch of exotic flavor to your table.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 lb ground beef: Provides the base for the meatballs.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together.
  • 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture to the meatball mixture.
  • 1 egg: Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped: Adds flavor and texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory umami taste.
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned): Provides a sweet and tangy contrast.
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds color and a slight crunch.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup: Gives a rich tomato base to the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup water: Helps combine the ingredients in the sauce.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Mix well.
Step 2:
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
Step 3:
In a large skillet, combine brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Step 4:
Add the baked meatballs, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
Step 5:
Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6:
Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple are best served hot over a bed of steamed rice or cooked noodles. This combination allows the flavors of the tangy sauce to complement the savory meatballs perfectly. To store leftovers, place the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain the sauce's consistency.

Helpful Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, consider using fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned. This will add a vibrant and juicy sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a bit more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. According to culinary experts, using a mixture of ground pork and beef can enhance the meatballs' tenderness and flavor. Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or rice vinegar, to adjust the tanginess to your liking. This dish is versatile and can be customized with various vegetables, such as carrots or snow peas, for added nutrition and color.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple in a bowl
Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple in a bowl | Myhomemaderecipe.com