Go Back
Meatballs have long held a beloved place in kitchens around the world, celebrated for their versatility and comforting appeal. Whether served as a hearty main dish, nestled in a sub sandwich, or presented as bite-sized appetizers at a gathering, meatballs can adapt to any occasion. Among the myriad of ways to prepare this classic dish, the Smoky Sweet BBQ Meatballs stand out for their unique flavor profile that marries the richness of meat with the delightful sweetness and smokiness of barbecue sauce.

Mouthwatering BBQ Meatballs

Discover the deliciousness of Smoky Sweet BBQ Meatballs, perfect for any occasion! These flavorful meatballs combine the richness of ground beef and pork with a hint of sweetness from barbecue sauce, creating a delightful taste experience. Easy to prepare, they make fantastic appetizers or hearty meals in sub sandwiches. With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you'll impress family and friends with this crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a memorable dining experience!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup minced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Optional: 1 tablespoon honey for extra sweetness

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined but do not overmix.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.

        Make the BBQ Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce. If desired, add honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Stir until warmed through, then set aside.

          Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).

            Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven, and brush them generously with the BBQ glaze. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly.

              Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, then serve hot on a platter. They can be enjoyed on their own, with toothpicks for parties, or added to sandwiches or pasta for a full meal!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings