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Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Meatballs

Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Meatballs

These Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Made with tender meatballs simmered in a rich sweet chili sauce, this easy set-it-and-forget-it dish is perfect for appetizers, parties, or a simple weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 3–4 hours
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Ingredients

2 lbs frozen fully cooked meatballs (beef, pork, or turkey)

1 cup sweet chili sauce

1/2 cup grape jelly

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Chopped green onions & sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Add Meatballs: Place frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.

Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, grape jelly, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.

Combine: Pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently stir to coat.

Cook:

  • On LOW for 3–4 hours, or

  • On HIGH for 2–3 hours
    Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm.

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Use homemade meatballs for a fresher flavor—just brown them first before adding to the slow cooker.
  • Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even coating.
  • Keep warm on the “warm” setting for parties—these hold well for hours.
  • If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth.

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
  • Pineapple Twist: Add 1 cup pineapple chunks for a tropical flavor.
  • BBQ Fusion: Replace half the chili sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce.
  • Healthier Option: Use turkey or chicken meatballs.
  • Sticky Asian Style: Add 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce and fresh minced garlic & ginger.
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3–4 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 14g
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