These Honey BBQ Meatballs are sweet and tangy little bites that everyone loves! Made with ground meat and smothered in sticky BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for parties or a cozy dinner.
I can’t resist popping these meatballs straight from the pan! They’re great with toothpicks for snacking or served over rice for a filling meal. Who can say no to those flavors? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go with ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey works well too if you’re looking for a leaner option. Turkey tends to be milder, so spices may need a bit of a boost.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or Italian-style breadcrumbs are great for binding. If you’re avoiding gluten, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats. I love using panko for extra crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheese flavor. If you’re out, any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can add a similar taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds freshness and color. If you don’t have it, fresh basil or even dried herbs like Italian seasoning work. Just watch the amounts, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
BBQ Sauce: For a different twist, try using a sweet and spicy sauce or even teriyaki sauce. You can also make your own BBQ sauce if you want total control over flavor and sweetness!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Mixing the ingredients properly is key to get juicy meatballs. Don’t overwork the meat, as this can lead to tougher meatballs. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Use your hands to combine ingredients gently. The mixture should be soft but hold together well.
- Shape each meatball to about 1 inch for even cooking.
- Don’t skip on baking them until browned. That caramelization adds flavor!
How to Make Honey BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake the meatballs. Total time is around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how quickly these tasty meatballs come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, turn on your oven and set it to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot for baking your meatballs!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, take the meat mixture and shape it into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are shaped, put them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
5. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, get a saucepan and mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat it over medium heat, stirring until it’s well combined and warmed through. Smell that delicious aroma!
6. Combine the Meatballs with the Sauce:
When the meatballs are ready, carefully transfer them to a large serving dish. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat them evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch. Serve the meatballs warm and enjoy every bite of your delicious Honey BBQ Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be mindful that turkey can be drier, so you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of chicken broth to the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check that the BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce are also gluten-free as some brands may contain gluten.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs a day in advance! Just form the meatballs and place them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months!
