BBQ Meatball Recipe: Sweet, Tangy & Tender Every Time
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s crowd-pleasing, delicious, and easy to make, BBQ meatballs should be at the top of your list. Whether you serve them at game day parties, weeknight dinners, or potlucks, these saucy, savory meatballs deliver bold barbecue flavor in every bite.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make tender and juicy BBQ meatballs from scratch, plus tips for baking, slow cooking, and freezing them for later. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Meatball Recipe
- Sweet and smoky flavor – BBQ sauce coats each meatball with tangy perfection.
- Versatile – Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or sandwich filling.
- Freezer-friendly – Great for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, spice, or meat blend to your liking.
Ingredients for BBQ Meatballs
Here’s everything you’ll need to make tender, flavorful meatballs with that iconic barbecue kick:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, adds richness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk (to moisten the breadcrumbs)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for smoky depth)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
How to Make BBQ Meatballs
Step 1: Prep the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for 5 minutes. Then add the ground beef, ground pork (if using), egg, onion, garlic, and seasonings. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined—don’t overwork the meat or the meatballs will be tough.
Step 2: Roll the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. You should get about 20–24 meatballs depending on the size.
Step 3: Bake or Sear
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through (internal temp: 160°F).
Optional: Sear them in a skillet for a crispier exterior before baking.
Step 4: Make the BBQ Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, stir together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, and chili powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Coat and Simmer
Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the sauce and gently stir to coat. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes so the flavors can meld.
Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs
Want a hands-off version? Try this crockpot method:
- Prepare and shape meatballs.
- Brown them in a skillet or bake for 10 minutes to firm them up.
- Add meatballs and sauce to a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until heated through and saucy.
This method is perfect for potlucks or parties!
Serving Suggestions
BBQ meatballs are extremely versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
- Appetizer: Serve on toothpicks with extra sauce for dipping.
- Dinner entrée: Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or mac and cheese.
- BBQ Meatball Subs: Load them into hoagie rolls with melty cheese.
- Party Platter: Serve alongside mini sliders, wings, and coleslaw.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists:
- BBQ Turkey Meatballs: Use lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Spicy BBQ Meatballs: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Insert a cube of cheddar or mozzarella in the center of each meatball.
- Honey BBQ Meatballs: Swap brown sugar for honey for a floral sweetness.
- Bacon BBQ Meatballs: Wrap each meatball in bacon before baking for an indulgent twist.
Storing & Reheating BBQ Meatballs
Fridge:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Freezer:
Cool the cooked BBQ meatballs completely, then freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Optional)
If you’d rather go the extra mile, here’s a quick homemade BBQ sauce to use:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp molasses
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 10 minutes. Use in place of bottled sauce in this BBQ meatball recipe.
BBQ Meatball Recipe FAQs
Can I make BBQ meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and bake the meatballs in advance. Store them with or without sauce in the fridge for a few days or freeze for later use.
What meat works best?
Ground beef with some fat content (80/20) works best. A mix of beef and pork offers great flavor and tenderness.
How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?
The breadcrumb and milk mixture, along with the egg, helps bind the meatballs. Be sure to mix gently and don’t skip those ingredients.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want a hearty, flavorful dinner, BBQ meatballs are always a winner. They’re juicy, saucy, and satisfying—plus incredibly easy to make with simple pantry staples.
Give this BBQ meatball recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s one of those go-to meals that never disappoints.
