Oven Barbecued Meatballs
Juicy oven-baked meatballs with a smoky barbecue glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, featuring savory flavors and a tender texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, soft bread crumbs, chopped onion, milk, beaten egg, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper. Shape mixture into balls.
- Mix flour and paprika in a small bowl.
- Roll the meatballs in the flour mixture.
- Brown the meatballs in a large skillet with vegetable oil until evenly browned.
- Drain the meatballs on paper towels.
- Place the browned meatballs in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour barbecue sauce over the meatballs.
- Cover the casserole and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Serve the meatballs over cooked noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For even more flavor, try adding minced garlic or chopped herbs like parsley to the meatball mixture. If you don’t have soft bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or stale bread soaked in milk. For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if using leaner meats.
Serving Suggestions
These oven barbecued meatballs are delicious served over cooked noodles or rice, making it a hearty meal. Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a fun twist, serve them as sliders on mini buns. These meatballs also pair beautifully with Kathy's Beef and Potato Casserole for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Barbecued Meatballs contains roughly 965 calories, with 17g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2199mg per serving (96% 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?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used, so ensure they reach the appropriate internal temperature.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add some heat, mix in chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference to ensure it's just right for your taste.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, shape and freeze them before cooking and bake them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as 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).