BBQ Meatballs

Ever walked into a room and immediately felt hungrier? That’s how it feels when BBQ Meatballs are simmering in the slow cooker!

These little flavor-packed balls of goodness are not just easy to make; they practically scream “comfort food.” You can toss them together in no time, watch them cook away while you kick back, and enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your home. These BBQ Meatballs are perfect for feeding a crowd or just for a cozy night in. Who knew something so simple could be so satisfying?

Why Make This Recipe

Let’s be real—who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal effort and tastes like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen? Here are a few reasons to whip up these BBQ Meatballs:

• Easy Cleanup: One bowl and a crockpot mean you can say goodbye to that endless pile of dishes. 🙌
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults) love these bite-sized delights! They’re sure to disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
• Versatile: Whether as a finger food at a party or the star of the dinner table, these meatballs fit right in!

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
2. Form your mixture into small meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs into a crockpot.
4. Pour the barbecue sauce over the meatballs until they’re nicely coated.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve warm as an irresistible appetizer!

How to Make BBQ Meatballs (Overview)

Making these BBQ Meatballs is a breeze! First, just mix everything in one bowl—no stress there. Roll the mixture into meatballs (don’t worry about them being perfectly round; they’ll still taste amazing). Then, plop them in the crockpot and drown them in the BBQ sauce. Set it and forget it! Pro tip: Want a tiny flavor upgrade? Use a smoky BBQ sauce for a delicious twist!

How to Serve BBQ Meatballs

These meatballs shine at any gathering! Try placing them on a big platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for some pop of color. You can also serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. And let’s not forget the heavenly aroma—your guests will be lining up for seconds before the first bite!

How to Store BBQ Meatballs

Did you make too many (is there such a thing?)? Just pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Want to extend their lifespan? Freeze them! They’ll be good for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or let them bubble away in a saucepan—easy-peasy!

Tips to Make BBQ Meatballs

• Don’t skip the egg: It helps bind everything together and keeps the meatballs from crumbling.
• Experiment with flavors: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter twist.
• Add some heat: Stir in a bit of crushed red pepper if you want to kick things up a notch.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try using different meats like ground chicken or even a vegan substitute! You can also switch up the BBQ sauce—maybe a honey BBQ for sweetness or a spicy one for those who love a kick.

FAQs

• Can I make barbecue meatballs ahead of time?
  Yes! Assemble the meatballs, and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

• What can I substitute for ground beef?
  Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat work great too!

• Can I use a different sauce?
  Absolutely! Teriyaki sauce or even a homemade marinara can jazz up these meatballs.

Now go on and make these BBQ Meatballs for your next gathering or cozy night in!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

BBQ Meatballs

Flavor-packed BBQ Meatballs that are easy to make and perfect for any gathering. Minimal effort with maximum flavor!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meatball Mixture

• 1 pound ground beef Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs Use plain or seasoned bread crumbs.
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg Helps bind the mixture.
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper

BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup barbecue sauce Can use smoky BBQ or variations like honey BBQ.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
2. Form your mixture into small meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs into a crockpot.
4. Pour the barbecue sauce over the meatballs until they’re nicely coated.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Serving

1. Serve warm as an irresistible appetizer!

Notes

To store leftovers, refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a microwave or saucepan.