Mom'S Barbecue Meatballs

Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Savory homemade meatballs are coated in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors and comforting appeal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 4 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup dried parsley
  • 1/2 cup water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 cup catsup
  • 1/2 Tbsp. mustard
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • prepared meatballs

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a saucepan, just to melt the butter.
  2. Pour the sauce over already browned meatballs.
  3. Place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F and bake for 1 hour.
  4. Leftover sauce may be frozen and used again.
  5. Great served with mashed potatoes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a hint of smoked paprika to the sauce. If you're out of dried parsley, fresh parsley or even basil can work as a substitute. Ensure the meatballs are browned well before adding the sauce for a deeper flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

These barbecue meatballs are delightful served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully. They also pair well with a side of Fresh Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes(Low-Fat) or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, they can be microwaved in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mom'S Barbecue Meatballs contains roughly 621 calories, with 21g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (184% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value), and potassium (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 933mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).

621 kcal 31% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 21.4g 43% DV
Total Fat 39.1g 50% DV
Carbs 56.3g 20% DV
Fiber 20.6g 74% DV
Sugar 20.7g 41% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 933.3mg 41% DV
Potassium 3923.4mg 83% DV
Cholesterol 95mg 32% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 13.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 90.9mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 149.6mg 12% DV
Iron 33.2mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Keep them separate in the refrigerator and combine them before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

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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