Savory Sweet & Spicy Instant Pot Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory sweet and spicy meatballs, made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. No more waiting hours for delicious flavor—this quick, hassle-free recipe combines the zing of chili sauce, the sweetness of apricot preserves, and a touch of barbecue for a perfect balance. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or just indulging in a late-night snack, these flavorful meatballs will be the star of the show. Plus, they're ready in just minutes!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
chili sauce
12 ounces (jarred)
apricot preserves
12 ounces (jarred)
sweet honey barbecue sauce
18 ounces (bottle)
water
1/2 cup (none)
red pepper flakes
1/2-1 teaspoon (to taste)
granulated garlic
1/2 teaspoon (none)
granulated onion
1/2 teaspoon (none)
frozen meatballs
22 ounces (package)
sliced chives or scallion
1 tablespoon (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by adding the chili sauce, apricot preserves, honey barbecue sauce, water, red pepper flakes, granulated garlic, and granulated onion to the inner pot of a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot.
2
Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
3
Next, add the frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4
Secure the Instant Pot lid in place, and be sure the valve is set to 'seal'.
5
Select the 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' function and set the timer for 6 minutes on high pressure.
6
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a quick release of the pressure according to your manufacturer's instructions, which typically takes about 5 minutes.
7
After carefully unlocking and removing the lid, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them in the sauce.
8
Transfer the meatballs to a large serving bowl, and for an extra touch, garnish with freshly sliced chives or scallions before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Sweet & Spicy Instant Pot Meatballs?
They are a quick and flavorful appetizer made with frozen meatballs, chili sauce, apricot preserves, and barbecue sauce in an Instant Pot.
What size Instant Pot is needed?
A 6-quart or larger Instant Pot is recommended for this recipe.
How long do the meatballs cook?
The meatballs cook for 6 minutes on high pressure.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?
No, the recipe uses frozen meatballs added directly to the sauce.
What type of fruit preserves are used?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of jarred apricot preserves.
How much chili sauce is required?
You will need 12 ounces of jarred chili sauce.
What kind of barbecue sauce is used?
An 18-ounce bottle of sweet honey barbecue sauce is used.
How much water is added to the sauce?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of water.
What seasonings are added to the sauce?
The sauce includes red pepper flakes, granulated garlic, and granulated onion.
How many ounces of meatballs are in the recipe?
The recipe calls for a 22-ounce package of frozen meatballs.
Is the pressure release natural or quick?
This recipe uses a quick release of the pressure once the cooking time is complete.
How long does the quick release take?
The quick release typically takes about 5 minutes.
What should the valve be set to during cooking?
The valve should be set to the 'seal' position.
How do I garnish the meatballs?
Garnish the finished meatballs with 1 tablespoon of freshly sliced chives or scallions.
Which Instant Pot function should I select?
Select the 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' function.
How much red pepper flakes should I use?
Use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, depending on your spice preference.
How much granulated garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of granulated garlic.
How much granulated onion is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of granulated onion.
What is the first step of the recipe?
Begin by adding the chili sauce, preserves, BBQ sauce, water, and spices to the inner pot.
Should the sauce be mixed before adding meatballs?
Yes, whisk the sauce ingredients together until smooth and well combined before adding the meatballs.
How do I ensure the meatballs are flavorful?
Ensure the frozen meatballs are evenly coated in the sauce mixture before sealing the lid.
What do I do after unlocking the lid?
Give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them thoroughly in the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is specifically described as a great party food or appetizer.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients including the garnish.
Can I serve these immediately?
Yes, once stirred and garnished, they can be transferred to a bowl and served.
Is this a spicy recipe?
It is a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy due to the chili sauce and red pepper flakes.
Can I use a larger package of meatballs?
The recipe is optimized for a 22-ounce package, but a larger 6-quart pot can accommodate them if there is enough sauce.
What is the total pressure cooking time?
The active pressure cooking time is 6 minutes.
Do I need to stir the sauce after cooking?
Yes, stirring after cooking ensures the meatballs are fully glazed in the thickened sauce.
Are these meatballs considered a quick meal?
Yes, they are ready in minutes and described as a hassle-free recipe.