Barbecued Steakers
Juicy meatballs glazed with a tangy barbecue sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, served over pasta or rice for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shape the ground chuck into 8 to 10 small meatballs.
- Saute the meatballs in hot fat in a skillet until lightly browned.
- Add bread crumbs to the meat first.
- Combine remaining ingredients and pour over the meatballs.
- Continue cooking over medium heat, basting frequently with sauce, for about 15 minutes.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier texture, consider using ground beef with a higher fat content. You can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you want a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor of the meatballs, making them even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These Barbecued Steakers are perfect served over a bed of cooked spaghetti or rice, which soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully. Pair with a fresh salad, like Nena Peggy's Cranberry Salad, for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables on the side to balance the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Cover with a lid and heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Steakers contains roughly 349 calories, with 2g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1890mg per serving (82% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Form the meatballs and sauté them, then let them cool before storing them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the sauce and finish cooking on the stove. This is a great way to save time during busy evenings.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these alternatives may require less time to cook thoroughly.
How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?
To adjust the recipe for more servings, simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially if you are making a larger batch. Ensure to use a larger skillet or cook in batches if necessary.
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).