Saucy Barbecued Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful meatballs glazed with a sweet and savory barbecue sauce, perfect for quick meals or casual gatherings, appealing to families and barbecue lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beef, milk, instant minced onions, and salt in a bowl.
- Mix well; shape into 15 meatballs, each about 1 1/2 inches in size.
- Arrange the meatballs in a microwave-safe pie plate.
- In a separate bowl, combine catsup, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
- Spoon the sauce over the meatballs.
- Cover the dish with wax paper.
- Microwave on High for 6 to 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're out of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce makes a great substitute. To ensure even cooking, rotate the pie plate halfway through microwaving. These meatballs can also be baked in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes if preferred. Serve alongside classic American recipes like Okra Stew for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
These saucy barbecued meatballs make a delicious appetizer or main dish. Serve them on toothpicks for a party or alongside rice for a complete meal. They pair wonderfully with baked goods like Baked Rice Casserole, or as a filling for sandwiches. A side of steamed vegetables can balance the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Barbecued Meatballs contains roughly 184 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or incorporating some finely chopped vegetables to maintain juiciness.
How do I adjust the cooking time for larger meatballs?
If you decide to make larger meatballs, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes for every additional inch in size. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee they're fully cooked. Using a food thermometer can help with this.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to cook, just combine them and microwave as directed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
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).