Barbecue Sauce(One Way To Use Little Meatballs)
Sweet and smoky barbecue sauce with a hint of onion, perfect for glazing meatballs or as a dipping sauce for casual gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine catsup, brown sugar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and chopped onion to make the sauce.
- Place meatballs in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce. You can substitute the liquid smoke with smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. If you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses can work well. This barbecue sauce also complements grilled chicken or ribs nicely, making it versatile for various dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecue meatballs as an appetizer or main dish, paired with sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a classic Southern meal. They also go well with macaroni and cheese or baked beans. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh salad. This dish can also be perfect for gatherings, alongside American recipes or other party fare.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover barbecue sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply pour the sauce into a saucepan and warm it over low heat until heated through. If you have leftover meatballs, they can be stored in the fridge as well, and reheated in the oven or microwave until warmed thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Sauce(One Way To Use Little Meatballs) contains roughly 280 calories, with 3g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 homemade ketchup instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Using homemade ketchup can enhance the flavor of your barbecue sauce. Just ensure that your ketchup has a similar consistency and sweetness to store-bought versions, as this will affect the overall taste of the sauce.
What type of meatballs work best for this recipe?
Beef meatballs are traditional, but you can use turkey or chicken meatballs for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentil-based meatballs or store-bought vegan meatballs to make this dish suitable for vegan recipes.
Can I freeze the barbecue meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs in their barbecue sauce. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
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).