Microwave Barbecued Meatballs And Sauce
Juicy meatballs glazed with flavorful barbecue sauce, perfect for quick family dinners or entertaining guests. Combines savory meat with smoky, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, beaten egg, prepared mustard, seasoned pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Add enough bread crumbs to the mixture to hold it together.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs in a pie plate.
- Microwave on High for 5 to 6 minutes, rotating twice during cooking.
- Pour hot barbecue sauce over the meatballs.
- Heat on Medium-high for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of ground chuck. If you don't have prepared mustard, Dijon mustard can work well as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you want a bit of a kick, a dash of hot sauce can also be added. Serve with Garlic Dip Or Spread for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs can be served on their own as an appetizer or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Pair with a fresh salad like Carrot Salad With Raisins And Nuts for a balanced plate. For a complete dinner, consider serving with garlic bread or mashed potatoes. They also make great sliders with buns for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them covered on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little barbecue sauce until warmed. This method helps maintain their moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Barbecued Meatballs And Sauce contains roughly 731 calories, with 14g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% 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 the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meatballs before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before microwaving.
What type of barbecue sauce is best for this recipe?
Any barbecue sauce you enjoy will work, but a sweet and tangy sauce complements the meatballs nicely. Consider using a homemade version for more control over the flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a barbecue sauce with a touch of chipotle or jalapeño.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your barbecue sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy this dish while adhering to gluten-free dietary needs.
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).