These tasty barbecue meatballs are packed with flavor and perfect for any gathering! They’re made with ground meat, bread crumbs, and a sweet tangy sauce that everyone loves.
Making these meatballs is a blast! You just mix, shape, and cook them. I love serving them as finger food during parties—watch out, they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. Just keep in mind it might be a bit drier, so adding a splash more milk can help.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add texture and help bind the meatballs. If you don’t have them, crushed crackers or oats can substitute nicely. Just adjust the amount of milk slightly to keep the mixture moist.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a wonderful umami kick. If you’re out or want to keep it dairy-free, Nutritional yeast gives a similar flavor. Or try pecorino cheese for a bolder taste.
Onion: Chopped onion keeps these meatballs juicy and flavorful. If you’re short on time, onion powder can be used in its place, though it won’t add moisture.
Barbecue Sauce: The type of barbecue sauce can change the whole flavor! I usually go for a tangy sauce, but feel free to use your favorite, whether it’s sweet, spicy, or smoky.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Don’t End Up Dry?
To keep meatballs tender and juicy, the key is in the mixing and baking. You want to mix the ingredients just until they’re combined to avoid overworking the meat, which makes them tough.
- Be gentle when shaping the meatballs, and try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
- Bake them at the right temperature! 400°F (200°C) is perfect for getting that nice brown crust without drying them out.
- Using milk and egg in your mixture helps with moisture too, so don’t skip those!
How to Make Delicious Barbecue Meatballs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that makes a great meal or party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when you put the meatballs in.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon just until combined, but be careful not to over-mix which can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, it’s time to shape the mixture into meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form balls that are about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze!
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through when you cut one open. You want them to be delicious and juicy!
5. Prepare the Barbecue Sauce:
While your meatballs are baking, pour the barbecue sauce into a saucepan and heat it over low heat. This will make the sauce warm and ready for the meatballs when they finish baking.
6. Coat and Serve:
Once the meatballs are done, carefully transfer them from the baking sheet to the saucepan with the warm barbecue sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are nicely coated. Serve them warm on a platter, drizzled with extra barbecue sauce if you like, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your tasty barbecue meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey may result in slightly drier meatballs, so you might consider adding a tablespoon of oil or an extra splash of milk for moisture.
What Other Bindings Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Alternatively, oats can also work well as a binding agent. Just make sure to adjust the quantity as needed, starting with about the same amount as breadcrumbs.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze leftover meatballs! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them up in the oven or microwave until heated through.
How Long Do Cooked Meatballs Last in the Refrigerator?
Cooked meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. If you’re reheating them, make sure to heat them to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
