Barbecue Meatballs(Part Iii)
Juicy, flavorful barbecue meatballs combine ground beef and sausage, making a hearty dish perfect for casual gatherings, served best with rice and a savory sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly beef, sausage, bread crumbs, and egg.
- Shape mixture into 24 meatballs.
- In a skillet, brown the meatballs; pour off excess fat.
- Add sauce mixture to the skillet.
- Cover and cook over low heat for 20 minutes or until done, stirring often.
- Serve the meatballs with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meat mixture. If you want a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Additionally, using panko breadcrumbs can add extra texture to the meatballs. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made barbecue sauce instead of making your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecue meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. They also pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve them as appetizers with toothpicks and extra barbecue sauce on the side. These meatballs can also complement dishes like the Ewoldt Family Meat Loaf for a varied dinner.
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 to keep them moist, or microwave them covered for about 1-2 minutes until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Meatballs(Part Iii) contains roughly 423 calories, with 24g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% 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 make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and either freeze them uncooked or cook them and then refrigerate. If frozen, cook them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes meal prep easy and convenient for busy nights.
What type of barbecue sauce should I use?
Choose a barbecue sauce that you enjoy, whether it's tangy, sweet, or smoky. Homemade barbecue sauce can elevate the dish, but store-bought options work well too. Consider trying different flavors, such as honey BBQ or chipotle for a spicy kick.
Can I substitute the sausage in the meatball mixture?
Yes, you can substitute sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to maintain some flavor, you could add spices like fennel seeds, paprika, or red pepper flakes to mimic the sausage's taste while keeping it healthier.
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).