If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these Mini BBQ Meatballs are your answer. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or just because you’re craving something savory and tangy. This recipe brings a smoky barbecue kick to your typical meatball for a flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ground beef: This is the base of your meatballs, providing richness and a hearty texture. Choose a blend with a bit of fat for juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together and soak up any extra moisture, keeping them tender.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a cheesy depth and umami boost that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together, ensuring your meatballs don't fall apart.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Infuse the meatballs with robust, savory flavors without the need for chopping.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
Barbecue sauce: This is where the magic happens, coating the meatballs in a sweet, smoky glaze.
Olive oil: Used for brushing the meatballs, it helps them brown beautifully in the oven.
These meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a more indulgent option, serve them over mashed potatoes or in a sandwich roll for a delicious meatball sub. They’re also a fantastic addition to a buffet spread at parties.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's nice and hot when your meatballs go in, which helps them cook evenly. While the oven heats up, grab a large mixing bowl.
In the bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined. Over-mixing can make the meatballs tough, so a gentle touch is key.
Next, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for uniform size so they cook at the same rate. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Brush each meatball with a little olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps them achieve that golden brown color we all love. Pop them in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until they're nicely browned and cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, pour the barbecue sauce into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. This allows the sauce to coat the meatballs smoothly and gives it a richer flavor.
Once the meatballs are done, transfer them into the saucepan and gently toss them until they’re well coated with the sauce. Be gentle to keep them intact.
Serve immediately to enjoy them at their best, or keep them warm in a slow cooker on a low setting if you’re preparing ahead for a party.
Share