Ellen'S Barbecued Meatballs
Ellen's Barbecued Meatballs are savory, tender meatballs coated in a tangy ketchup and brown sugar glaze, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the ground meat, evaporated milk, oatmeal, cracker crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a large bowl.
- Mix until the mixture is soft and well combined.
- Shape the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve with the barbecue sauce or additional ketchup if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or venison for beef. If you don’t have evaporated milk, regular milk can work, but you may need to adjust the oatmeal for consistency. Consider adding herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. You can also use breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs for a different texture. If you prefer a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or over a bed of rice. Pair them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of the barbecue sauce or additional ketchup for dipping. They make a great addition to a potluck or game day spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a little ketchup or barbecue sauce and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be reheated in the microwave for quicker serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ellen'S Barbecued Meatballs contains roughly 348 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (160% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1799mg per serving (78% 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 freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Cooked meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with garlic bread, coleslaw, or even baked beans for a hearty meal. They also work well in a sub sandwich with melted cheese or as a topping for pasta. For a lighter option, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To make the meatballs milder, reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely. For those who enjoy more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Adjusting the spices will allow you to tailor the flavor to your preference.
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).