Bbq Meatballs

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Juicy meatballs flavored with smoky chili, seasoned oats, and onions, baked in a tangy BBQ sauce—perfect for casual gatherings or comforting family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 6 cups ground beef
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups oats
  • 2 eggs
  • 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Mix together ground beef, milk, oats, eggs, chili powder, chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into meatballs and place them in a 13 x 9 inch baking dish.
  4. Cover the meatballs with BBQ sauce.
  5. Bake in the oven for one hour or until cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped herbs. If you're looking for healthier substitutions, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use breadcrumbs instead of oats for a different texture, or add some finely diced bell peppers for extra moisture and taste. Make sure to chop the onions finely to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ meatballs pair beautifully with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them on slider buns for a fun appetizer or party dish. Consider making a dipping sauce with extra BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of honey for a sweet twist. These meatballs are also great over rice or mashed potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then heat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bbq Meatballs contains roughly 750 calories, with 20g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (228% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 844mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).

750 kcal 38% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 20.4g 41% DV
Total Fat 15.2g 20% DV
Carbs 140.3g 51% DV
Fiber 16.1g 58% DV
Sugar 23.9g 48% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 844.3mg 37% DV
Potassium 1518.2mg 32% DV
Cholesterol 209.1mg 70% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 314.9mcg 35% DV
Vitamin C 205mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 435.4mg 33% DV
Iron 8.7mg 49% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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. Simply form them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding additional cooking time as needed.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce complements the meatballs well, but you can choose any variety you prefer, such as smoky or spicy. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing different sauces to create your own signature flavor.

How can I make these meatballs spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili powder or include a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or use a spicy BBQ sauce. Adjust the seasoning to your taste to achieve the desired level of spiciness.

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).

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