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Sweet and Tangy Asian Meatballs for Appetizer Recipes

Whenever I’m planning a party or just need a little something to bring flavor to the table, I turn to these sweet and tangy Asian meatballs. They’re savory, juicy, and dripping in a sticky homemade sauce that pulls you right in after one bite. And trust me, one bite is never enough. What I love most about this recipe is how the soy sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of rice vinegar wrap around the meatballs like a warm hug. We’re talking that beautiful balance of salty-sweet with a whisper of heat if you want it. Oh, and they reheat like a dream, so they’re great for make-ahead meal prep or last-minute guests. Whether you serve them with toothpicks for a casual get-together or pile them over rice for an easy weeknight dinner, they’re one of those recipes appetizer lovers go wild for. From the smell in the kitchen to the last bite on the plate, these meatballs hit the sweet spot for Asian food recipes and make the perfect entry into your list of Asian dinner recipes. Also, if you’re a fan of Parmesan meatballs, this one might just surprise you with a new favorite twist.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 10 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: appetizer recipes, Asian Dinner Recipes, Asian Food Recipes, Asian Meals, Parmesan meatballs, recipe appetizer, recipes appetizer
Servings: 12 servings
Author: Eleanor

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds frozen homestyle meatballs
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, honey, and rice vinegar.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth, then stir it into the sauce.
  4. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens—this takes about 1–2 minutes.
  5. Place the frozen meatballs in a large slow cooker.
  6. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat evenly.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until heated through.
  8. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving, if desired.

Notes

These meatballs are great served with toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice or noodles for dinner. For added kick, stir in a bit of chili garlic sauce.