Barbecued Meat Balls
Juicy, flavorful meatballs with a hint of blue cheese and onion, perfect for grilling or baking. Their savory taste pairs well with barbecue sauce, making them ideal for casual gatherings or family dinners. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be served as appetizers or main course dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the crushed crackers, milk, blue cheese, egg, grated onion, salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Let stand to soften.
- Add the ground beef to the mixture and combine thoroughly.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs.
- Broil in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes on a large cookie sheet.
- For barbecuing, place the meatballs in a crock-pot and add enough barbecue sauce to cover them.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the blue cheese with feta or cheddar, depending on your preference. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers instead of Hi Ho crackers. Mixing in some finely chopped herbs, like parsley or basil, can also enhance the taste. Be sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecued meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw. They pair beautifully with barbecue sauce and can be served in a sandwich or on a bun for a hearty meal. For a complete spread, consider including sides like baked beans or cornbread, similar to what you might find in classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecued meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a bit of barbecue sauce to keep them moist, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Meat Balls contains roughly 1104 calories, with 11g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2966mg per serving (129% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef to create a lighter version of these meatballs. Just keep in mind that turkey may require a bit more seasoning due to its milder flavor. Adding extra spices or herbs can help enhance the overall taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re broiling them, watch closely for browning, and you can also cut one in half to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked meatballs by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Cooked meatballs can also be frozen; just ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
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).