BBQ Meatballs Recipe: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
This recipe delivers juicy, tender BBQ meatballs bursting with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Perfect for appetizers, main courses, or game day gatherings, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving hits.
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For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (adds juiciness!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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For the BBQ Sauce: (If you don't want to use store-bought BBQ sauce)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these easy steps for perfectly cooked BBQ meatballs every time.
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Consistency is key for even cooking.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
You have several options for cooking:
- Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then reduce heat to medium and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Slow Cooking: Place meatballs in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, basting occasionally with additional BBQ sauce.
4. Sauce it Up (Optional):
Once the meatballs are cooked, you can toss them in your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor. If you made your own sauce, now is the time to coat those delicious morsels.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your BBQ meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks, on slider buns, or as part of a hearty meal with your favorite sides like coleslaw or potato salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese please: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta for extra flavor and texture.
- Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
- Make it a meal: Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
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