Sweet Chili Meatballs cooked slowly in the crockpot are the perfect mix of tender meatballs coated in a sticky, sweet, and just a little bit spicy chili sauce. The sauce is simple but packed with flavor, making these meatballs irresistible whether they’re served as a snack or a meal.
I love how easy this recipe is to set and forget in the crockpot while the flavors meld together all day long. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but doesn’t take much work at all. I usually make extra because they disappear quickly—friends and family always ask for seconds!
My favorite way to enjoy these meatballs is over steamed rice or with toothpicks as an appetizer at parties. They balance sweet and heat so well that they bring everyone to the table, and they’re great for feeding a crowd without needing to spend all your time in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I like using a mix of beef and pork for juiciness and flavor. Ground turkey or chicken work well if you want a leaner option. Just watch the cooking time so they don’t dry out.
Breadcrumbs: They keep the meatballs tender. Use panko for a lighter texture or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Sweet Chili Sauce: The star of this dish! Store-bought brands save time, but making your own allows you to control sweetness and spice levels. Adjust chili flakes to your heat preference.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and balances the heat. Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used instead.
How Do I Make Meatballs Hold Together and Stay Tender in the Crockpot?
To keep meatballs from falling apart and stay juicy in slow cooking, it’s key to avoid overmixing and to add binders.
- Gently mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, and milk. This combination helps bind ingredients without toughening the meat.
- Shape evenly sized meatballs so they cook uniformly.
- Optional: Brown them in a skillet before slow cooking. This not only adds flavor but gives them a firm crust, helping them hold together better in the crockpot.
- Cook on low heat for the juiciest results, as high heat can dry them out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – perfect for hands-off cooking and keeps meatballs tender.
- Large mixing bowl – to easily combine and mix the meatball ingredients without mess.
- Baking sheet or plate – handy for shaping and holding meatballs before cooking.
- Skillet (optional) – great for browning meatballs for extra flavor and texture.
- Whisk – to blend the sweet chili sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep ingredient amounts accurate for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner option without losing flavor.
- Add finely chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots to the meat mixture for extra moisture and subtle sweetness.
- Mix in fresh grated ginger or a splash of lime juice in the sauce to brighten the flavors and add a zesty twist.
- Top with chopped fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts before serving for added texture and a fresh, nutty note.
Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra umami)
For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes or fresh sliced red chili (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing the meatballs and sauce takes about 20 minutes. Cooking in the crockpot takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. If you want to thicken the sauce, allow 10-15 minutes near the end of cooking with the lid off.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make and Shape the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, gently mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, green onions, milk, salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using). Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. Then, roll the mixture into 1 to 1 1/2-inch meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet or plate.
2. (Optional) Brown the Meatballs:
For extra flavor and a firmer texture, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, turning to brown each side for about 3-4 minutes. Then transfer them to your crockpot. You can also skip this step and add the meatballs raw directly into the crockpot.
3. Prepare and Add the Sauce:
Mix sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and chili flakes in a bowl until combined. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs in the crockpot, making sure all are coated well.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
5. Thicken Sauce (If Needed):
If the sauce seems too thin, stir in the cornstarch slurry about 20 minutes before the end of cooking. Cook uncovered to let the sauce thicken nicely.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the meatballs hot over steamed rice or on their own as a tasty appetizer. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds just before serving.
Enjoy your sweet, slightly spicy meatballs that bring a delicious tangy kick and sticky glaze—perfect for any day of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding to the crockpot. Cooking time may be a bit longer if you add them frozen.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. The sauce can also be made in advance and combined in the crockpot when ready to cook.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers. Also, check that your soy sauce and sweet chili sauce are gluten-free brands.