Barbecue Meat Balls
These barbecue meatballs are a delicious blend of ground meat and pork sausage, infused with the smoky flavor of liquid smoke and sweetened with brown sugar. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, they offer a satisfying taste that appeals to both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, pork sausage, evaporated milk, oatmeal, salt, pepper, and chili powder well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the meatballs in a baking pan in single layers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground meat and pork sausage. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the mixture. Keep an eye on the baking time, as meatballs can dry out if overcooked. You can also use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oatmeal if that's what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecue meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish. Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking, or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with Barbecued Beans for a classic barbecue feast. A side of coleslaw can also add a refreshing crunch to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or extra ketchup, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Meat Balls contains roughly 514 calories, with 24g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1295mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair nicely with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, or even a simple green salad. They can also be enjoyed as a filling for sandwiches, topped with extra barbecue sauce and served on a bun.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape the meatballs and bake them just before serving. This method allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).