Barbecue Meatballs Or Frankfurters
Juicy meatballs cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce with a savory blend of Worcestershire, onions, and spices, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 16 balls.
- Fry the meatballs in a small amount of fat until browned.
- Combine catsup, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onions, sugar, vinegar, and water to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the browned meatballs in a skillet.
- Cover and cook slowly for 10 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or using ground turkey instead of beef. If you want a spicier kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes. To achieve a uniform size for the meatballs, use a cookie scoop. If you're short on time, pre-made meatballs can be used; just adjust the cooking time based on their size.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecue meatballs on toothpicks for a fun appetizer or over rice for a filling main dish. They pair beautifully with coleslaw and cornbread, making for a hearty meal. For a twist, try them in a sub roll for a meatball sandwich or alongside the Pigs In A Blanket Casserole for a potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce, covering to retain moisture. Alternatively, microwave them in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Meatballs Or Frankfurters contains roughly 377 calories, with 4g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2285mg per serving (99% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly, especially for leaner meats, which can dry out more quickly.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These barbecue meatballs are versatile and can be served with a side of mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, or even a fresh garden salad. They also make a great topping for baked potatoes, adding a delicious twist to your meal.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently before pouring over the meatballs, allowing the flavors to meld while you cook them.
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).