BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Quantities adjust automatically for different servings, but cooking times remain the same.

• 1 pound ground beef (20% fat or higher recommended)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (for basting, or more if desired)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, crushed tortilla chips, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes.
5. Remove the meatballs and brush them generously with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 12 minutes. The meatballs are done when an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center reaches at least 160F (70C).
6. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Cooks Tip

For a delicious meatball sub, toast both halves of a hoagie roll and melt provolone cheese on the toast. Place three meatballs on the bottom half, add more BBQ sauce, and top with the other half. Enjoy warm!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 166
• Total Fat: 7g (9% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (12% DV)
• Cholesterol: 72mg (24% DV)
• Sodium: 484mg (21% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 16g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 10g (20% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 36mg (3% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (8% DV)
• Potassium: 220mg (5% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrient data may vary depending on ingredient specifics.

The Origin of BBQ Meatballs

BBQ meatballs, a beloved American comfort food, trace their roots to the tradition of combining simple, hearty ingredients with smoky, tangy sauces. Meatballs themselves have existed for centuries, with variations appearing in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. In the United States, the barbecue twist emerged in the mid-20th century when home cooks began pairing ground meat with rich, flavorful barbecue sauces, creating a dish that captured both convenience and the essence of backyard grilling. Unlike classic Italian or Swedish meatballs, the American BBQ version emphasizes a robust, smoky flavor profile that reflects the countrys regional barbecue culture.

Regional Variations

BBQ meatballs vary across the U.S., depending on local barbecue styles. In the South, sauces are often sweet and molasses-based, highlighting brown sugar and honey. Kansas City-style BBQ meatballs favor a thick, tomato-rich sauce with a perfect balance of tang and sweetness. In contrast, Texas versions lean toward spicier, smoky flavors with cayenne and smoked paprika. Even the choice of meat may change regionally, from ground beef and pork blends to occasional turkey or chicken variations, adapting to local tastes and traditions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike Italian meatballs, which often feature Parmesan cheese and herbs like basil or parsley and are served in marinara, BBQ meatballs focus on a caramelized, smoky glaze. Swedish meatballs are smaller, creamier, and accompanied by a velvety gravy. BBQ meatballs distinguish themselves through their bold, tangy sauces and often include additional textures, such as crushed tortilla chips, which give a unique crispiness and help the meatballs hold their shape during baking or grilling.

Typical Serving Occasions

BBQ meatballs are versatile and appear in a variety of settings. They are popular at backyard barbecues, potlucks, and game-day gatherings, often served as appetizers on toothpicks or as the centerpiece of a meatball sub sandwich. They also pair well with side dishes like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. Many restaurants incorporate them as finger foods or part of a casual dining menu, while home cooks enjoy them as a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner option.

Fun Facts and Trivia

One interesting aspect of BBQ meatballs is their adaptability. Ingredients like crushed tortilla chips, breadcrumbs, or even oats can be used as binders. The sauce can be customized to reflect local flavors, from smoky chipotle blends to honey mustard variations. Additionally, the dish has gained popularity in catering and party menus because it can be easily scaled up for large crowds. Some BBQ enthusiasts even experiment with slow-cooking the meatballs in a smoker to impart an authentic outdoor barbecue flavor, merging tradition with culinary creativity.

FAQ about BBQ Meatballs Recipe