Barbecued Mini Meatballs
Juicy mini meatballs coated in smoky barbecue sauce make for an easy, flavorful appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, water, and pancake mix until smooth.
- Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
- Add ground beef and mix lightly to combine.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs using about 1 rounded teaspoonful for each.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Add the cooked meatballs to barbecue sauce and toss to coat.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy eating.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you don't have pancake mix, you can use flour combined with baking powder and a pinch of salt. Letting the meatball mixture rest not only helps the flavors meld but also improves texture. For added flavor, mix in chopped herbs or spices.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecued mini meatballs are perfect for parties or game day. Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking, and pair with a side of veggie sticks or a fresh salad. They also go well with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for a fun appetizer spread. For a complete meal, serve over rice or in a bun, similar to Baked Burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Mini Meatballs contains roughly 61 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 freeze the meatballs before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute barbecue sauce with teriyaki sauce or a homemade sauce made of ketchup, vinegar, and spices. This will still give the meatballs a delicious glaze.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The meatballs should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside. If they look golden brown and firm, they're likely done.
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).