Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mind-blowing Awesome Sauce BBQ Meatballs! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs glazed in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This American classic is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect blend of savory beef, aromatic spices, and irresistible BBQ goodness. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family dinner, or just craving something incredibly delicious, these meatballs are about to become your new go-to recipe that will seriously impress everyone at the table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using clean hands, form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create around 16-20 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Preheat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding meatballs to achieve a nice golden-brown exterior.
- Carefully place the meatballs into the hot skillet, allowing space between each one. Cook for 4-5 minutes, rotating periodically to brown all sides evenly.
- Once meatballs are browned and have developed a nice crust, reduce heat to medium-low and pour BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, occasionally turning the meatballs to ensure they are fully cooked and sauce is evenly distributed.
- Check internal temperature of meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Meat Mixing Magic: When combining ingredients, use your hands and mix gently. Overmixing can make meatballs tough, so be gentle and just combine until ingredients are incorporated.
- Size Matters: Try to make meatballs uniform in size to ensure even cooking. A small ice cream scoop can help create consistent meatballs.
- Temperature Is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to check that meatballs reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety and perfect doneness.
- Sauce Coating Technique: For extra flavor, reserve some BBQ sauce to drizzle over the meatballs just before serving for a glossy, appetizing finish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or with a side of coleslaw for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
