BBQ Meatballs Recipe: A Mouthwatering Appetizer

BBQ Meatballs are a perfect combination of savory, smoky, and sweet flavors, making them an ideal appetizer or main dish for parties, family dinners, and game nights. Whether baked or slow-cooked, these meatballs are coated in a delicious homemade BBQ sauce that enhances their taste and juiciness. This BBQ Meatballs Recipe is easy to follow and delivers tender, flavorful meatballs that everyone will love.

Nutrition & Instructions

Nutrition Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 14g

Prep Time, Active Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Appetizer / Main Course

Servings

• Servings: 6-8 people

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet with parchment paper
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or a slotted spoon
• Slow cooker (optional)

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1/2 lb ground pork (optional for extra juiciness)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Do not overmix to avoid tough meatballs.
4. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the BBQ Sauce

6. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and honey.
7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
8. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Meatballs in BBQ Sauce

9. Once the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl.
10. Pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat each meatball evenly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

11. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
12. Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a hearty meal.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs

• After shaping the meatballs, sear them in a pan until browned.
• Transfer them to a slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce over them.
• Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the meatballs are fully cooked and flavorful.

Stovetop BBQ Meatballs

• Instead of baking, cook the meatballs in a large skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides.
• Add the BBQ sauce to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and coated in sauce.

Tips for the Best BBQ Meatballs

• Use a combination of ground beef and pork for the juiciest meatballs.
• Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
• If making ahead, store cooked meatballs and BBQ sauce separately and combine before serving.
• For extra smoky flavor, grill the meatballs for a few minutes after coating them in sauce.

Conclusion

This BBQ Meatballs Recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its juicy, tender meatballs coated in a flavorful homemade barbecue sauce. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, these BBQ meatballs will surely be a hit at any gathering. Try them today and enjoy a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors!