Crispie Barbecued Meatballs
Crispy, flavorful meatballs glazed with a sweet and tangy catsup sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, appealing to meat lovers and fans of savory bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, beaten egg, 3/4 cup Rice Krispies, salt, pepper, and chopped onion; mix well.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, catsup, nutmeg, and dry mustard.
- Put half of the catsup mixture into the beef mixture and mix well.
- Shape the beef mixture into small meatballs and place on a rack on top of a cookie sheet.
- Spread the remaining catsup mixture over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle the remaining Rice Krispies over the top of the meatballs.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider adding crushed crackers or breadcrumbs to the meatball mixture. If you're short on time, pre-made barbecue sauce can replace the catsup mixture. For a healthier option, you could use ground turkey instead of beef. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences, and feel free to experiment with spices that complement American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crispie Barbecued Meatballs as a delightful appetizer with toothpicks or over a bed of rice for a hearty main dish. Pair them with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. These meatballs also go well with sides like coleslaw or baked beans, making them perfect for a summer barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Let the meatballs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispie Barbecued Meatballs contains roughly 826 calories, with 12g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1062mg per serving (46% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats can cook faster.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies?
If you don't have Rice Krispies, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can work as great substitutes, providing a similar crunch to the meatballs. Adjust the amount based on the texture you desire.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Form them and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).