Oven Barbecued Meat Balls
Oven barbecued meatballs are tender, flavorful bites coated in a tangy, sweet, and savory barbecue sauce. Perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish combines ground beef with a rich sauce, offering a satisfying meal that appeals to meat lovers and fans of smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, moisten the bread crumbs with the milk and combine them with the ground beef, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into 24 meatballs and place them in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, combine the remaining ingredients to make the barbecue sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake the meatballs, covered, at 475°F for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped garlic or fresh herbs into the meatball mixture. If you're short on time, use pre-made barbecue sauce instead of making your own. Additionally, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish while still enjoying delicious meatballs. This recipe also works well for meal prep; just make a larger batch and freeze some for later.
Serving Suggestions
These oven barbecued meatballs are perfect served over rice or in a sub sandwich for a hearty meal. Pair them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. You can also serve them as an appetizer at your next potluck dinner, where they’re sure to be a hit. For a comforting meal, try them alongside cornbread pie.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, microwave them on medium power or bake them at 350°F until heated through, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Barbecued Meat Balls contains roughly 221 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1383mg per serving (60% 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 make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just assemble them and store in the baking dish covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and follow the same baking instructions.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors of the barbecue sauce.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for lean ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Pork or a mix of meats can also be used for different flavor profiles. Just adjust cooking times if needed.
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).