Can I use a different cut of meat?

Absolutely. The beauty of slow cooking is flexibility. Ground pork, chicken, or a beef-pork mix will all work. Choose what’s available and what your family prefers. Keep an eye on fat content; leaner meats may need a touch more moisture.

Do I need to brown the meatballs first?

You do not need to brown them. Browning adds color and a little depth, but the Crockpot will cook them through and develop flavor without this step. I often skip browning to keep the evening simple.

How do I know when they are done?

The meatballs are ready when they are tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for poultry or 160°F for beef. If you do not use a thermometer, a fork should meet little resistance.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes. You can mix the sauce the night before and store it in the fridge. Pour it over the meatballs right before you start the slow cooker. This is a gentle way to pace your evening.

How can I thicken the sauce if it is too thin?

Stir a small slurry of cornstarch and water and add it near the end, then cook on high for 15 minutes. You can also whisk a bit of tomato paste or reduce the sauce on the stovetop for a thicker finish.

Easy Sweet Chili Meatballs 2026

Name: Sweet Chili Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 egg; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; Chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Description

Comforting slow-cooked meatballs in a sweet chili sauce that bring warmth and joy to the table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 egg
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
Chili flakes (optional, for heat)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the meatballs in the Crockpot in a single layer.
Pour sweet chili sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Serve warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg