Barbecue Sauce Meatballs
These Barbecue Sauce Meatballs are a flavorful crowd-pleaser, combining the rich taste of ground beef with a tangy barbecue kick. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, they offer a delightful mix of textures from the crunchy cornflakes and tender meat. Serve them as an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, cornflakes, ketchup, chopped onions, and Carnation milk in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the meatballs on a broiler rack or a cookie sheet in the oven at 400°.
- Turn the meatballs once during cooking.
- Cook until done, about 20-25 minutes.
- Combine the cooked meatballs with barbecue sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have cornflakes, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can work in a pinch. Adjust the level of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami flavor. To make these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes. Experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite profile.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecue sauce meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with toothpicks at parties or alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with classic American recipes like coleslaw or cornbread for a complete comfort food experience. For a fun twist, try them in a sub sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Sauce Meatballs contains roughly 201 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 952mg per serving (41% 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 cook them and refrigerate or freeze them before cooking. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. This is a great time-saving strategy for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What is the best way to ensure my meatballs stay moist?
To keep meatballs moist, don't overmix the ingredients, as this can lead to a dense texture. The Carnation milk also adds moisture, so measure it carefully. Cooking them at the right temperature and time will help retain their juiciness.
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork, turkey, or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used. Make sure to adjust seasoning if using a milder meat.
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).