Introduction
BBQ meatballs are a perfect combination of tender meat, smoky sauce, and rich flavor. They make a great appetizer for parties or a hearty main dish for family dinners. Preparing them at home allows you to control seasoning and texture for the ultimate taste experience.
Making BBQ meatballs is easier than it seems. With simple ingredients and a few cooking steps, you can create meatballs that are juicy inside and perfectly coated in sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. They work well with beef, pork, chicken, or a mix for varied flavors.
These meatballs are versatile and loved by all age groups. You can serve them on their own, in sliders, or as a side to rice and vegetables. Their quick cooking time makes them ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Ingredients Needed
Here is the complete list of ingredients along with their approximate calorie count per quantity.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) | 960 |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | 200 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup | 110 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | 4 |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | 4 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | 3 |
| BBQ sauce | 1 cup | 190 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Water | 1/4 cup | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly browned.
- In a saucepan, combine BBQ sauce and water. Heat on medium until warm.
- Toss baked meatballs in the warmed BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- Serve immediately or keep warm in a covered dish until ready to serve.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- For extra juiciness, mix half beef and half pork.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for added flavor.
- For spicy meatballs, mix in 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or a few chili flakes.
- Substitute BBQ sauce with honey mustard or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Bake meatballs on a wire rack to allow even browning and prevent sogginess.
Nutritional Information
Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (4-5 meatballs).
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 22 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Fat | 24 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
Serving Suggestions
BBQ meatballs are perfect for appetizers or main courses. Serve them with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. They also pair wonderfully with crusty bread, sliders, or on top of spaghetti for a fusion twist. For parties, arrange meatballs in a slow cooker with extra BBQ sauce for easy serving.
Conclusion
Homemade BBQ meatballs deliver rich flavor and tender texture. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with various meats, herbs, and sauces to suit any taste preference.
Serving them fresh from the oven ensures they are juicy and perfectly coated in smoky, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce. Enjoy them with sides or as party snacks, and they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Making BBQ meatballs at home allows full control over ingredients and seasoning. Once you try this simple recipe, it will become a regular choice for weeknight meals, gatherings, and family dinners.
