There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of BBQ glazed meatballs.

Growing up, I remember my family gathering around the table, savoring those sweet and tangy flavors that danced on our taste buds.

These little bites of joy are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively backyard barbecue.

Table of Contents

Ingredient List

To make delicious BBQ glazed meatballs, I gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the BBQ Glaze

1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds

With these ingredients ready, I can whip up a batch of meatballs that are bursting with flavor, perfect for any gathering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfect cooking temperature for the meatballs.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork. Add in 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup of finely chopped parsley, 1 beaten egg, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix everything together with your hands until just combined.
Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the meat mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them for even cooking.
Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. You can check for doneness using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the center.
Prepare the BBQ Glaze
While the meatballs bake, prepare the BBQ glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of BBQ sauce, ¼ cup of honey, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers, stirring occasionally.
Glaze the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven. Carefully transfer them into a large bowl and pour the BBQ glaze over them. Gently toss to coat each meatball evenly with the glaze.
Finish Cooking
Return the glazed meatballs to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the glaze to caramelize and enhance the flavors.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the meatballs from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, and serve them hot. They pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy eating or can be served over rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Recipe Notes & Variations

These BBQ glazed meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are some notes and variations to enhance your cooking experience:

Meat Choices

I love using a blend of ground beef and ground pork for a juicy texture. However, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For an adventurous twist, try using ground lamb or even plant-based meat alternatives.

Breadcrumbs

For extra flavor, consider using seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. If you want a gluten-free variation, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground oats.

Cheese Substitutions

While Parmesan adds a nice sharpness, I sometimes use mozzarella for a melty consistency or cheddar for a heartier flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference.

Adding Veggies

To boost nutritional value, I love incorporating finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the meatball mixture. This adds flavor and moisture.

BBQ Glaze Variations

Customizing the glaze is fun. You can add heat with a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika. For a fruity twist, mix in a tablespoon of pineapple juice or chopped peaches into the glaze.

Cooking Methods

If I’m short on time, I sometimes opt for cooking the meatballs in a slow cooker. Just combine the meatballs with the glaze and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. You can also grill the meatballs for a smoky flavor — just make sure to keep a close eye on them!

Serving Suggestions

I enjoy serving these meatballs in a variety of ways. Place them on mini sliders for a fun appetizer, or serve them over creamy mashed potatoes. They also pair well with coleslaw or a fresh salad.

Storage

These meatballs hold up well in the fridge for up to three days. I often make a double batch and freeze them for quick weeknight meals. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and they’ll taste as good as fresh.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my BBQ glazed meatballs, the options are endless and exciting. Here are some of my favorite ways to present them:

Mini Sliders

I love turning these meatballs into mini sliders. Simply place a meatball on a small bun with a slice of cheese and a dollop of extra BBQ sauce. These sliders are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Over Rice or Pasta

Another delicious option is to serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or al dente pasta. The BBQ glaze seeps into the grains or noodles, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. I often like to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a comforting dish, I pair the meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes. The rich texture of the potatoes combined with the sweet and tangy glaze is simply divine. Adding a bit of butter and a sprinkle of paprika elevates the dish even more.

With Coleslaw

I enjoy serving my BBQ glazed meatballs with a side of coleslaw. The crunchy and tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory meatballs, making each bite a delightful experience.

Skewers for Appetizers

For a fun and interactive appetizer, I often use skewers to serve the meatballs. I thread the glazed meatballs onto toothpicks or skewers and serve them alongside dipping sauces like extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing. It’s perfect for gatherings where guests can grab and go!

On a Charcuterie Board

Adding BBQ glazed meatballs to a charcuterie board is another fantastic idea. I mix them in with cheeses, cured meats, olives, and various dips. It creates a beautiful spread that can impress guests and encourages everyone to try a little bit of everything.

Nutrition Information

I love knowing the nutrition facts for my favorite recipes. Here’s the breakdown for BBQ glazed meatballs, so you can enjoy them guilt-free.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (4 meatballs)
Calories	320
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	660mg
Total Carbohydrates	20g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	8g
Protein	20g

These meatballs provide a balanced profile of macronutrients.

The combination of ground beef and pork gives me a hearty serving of protein, helping to keep me satisfied.

The sweet and tangy BBQ glaze adds a burst of flavor without overwhelming the nutrition.

If I’m looking to lighten up the dish, I often use ground turkey or chicken, which can significantly reduce the fat content.

Adding finely chopped vegetables boosts the fiber and nutrient density without sacrificing taste.

Enjoying a serving alongside a bed of veggies or brown rice takes the nutritional value even further.

Conclusion

I’ve had such a blast sharing my love for BBQ glazed meatballs with you.

Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy family dinner or a lively barbecue, these meatballs are sure to bring smiles to the table.

The sweet and tangy glaze makes them irresistible and versatile. Plus, with all the tips and variations I’ve shared, you can easily make this dish your own.

I can’t wait for you to try them out and create your own delicious memories. Happy cooking!