Description
BBQ Meatballs are tender, juicy beef meatballs baked and coated in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. Perfect as a party appetizer or comforting main dish, they’re sweet, savory, and packed with bold flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until cooked through and browned.
- In a saucepan, warm barbecue sauce and brown sugar over low heat.
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Do not overmix to keep meatballs tender.
- Can be made in a slow cooker by combining baked meatballs with sauce and cooking on low for 2–3 hours.
- Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) for up to 3 months.
- Use turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American