Tailgate BBQ Beef Meatballs (Printable)
Tender beef meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze, ideal for game day gatherings or easy entertaining.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meatballs
01 - 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
02 - 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 0.25 cup whole milk
05 - 0.25 cup finely chopped onion
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
→ BBQ Glaze
12 - 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
13 - 2 tablespoons honey
14 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
# How To Make:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then lightly grease its surface.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
03 - With slightly damp hands, form the meat mixture into 1.5-inch diameter meatballs and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake the meatballs for 15 minutes, or until they are visibly browned and mostly cooked through.
05 - While the meatballs bake, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for approximately 5 minutes, until the glaze is warm and slightly thickened.
06 - Carefully remove the meatballs from the oven. Using tongs or a large spoon, transfer them to the saucepan containing the prepared BBQ glaze and gently toss until each meatball is thoroughly coated.
07 - Return the glazed meatballs to the baking sheet. Continue baking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the meatballs are fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F.
08 - Serve the BBQ beef meatballs hot, offering additional glaze on the side for dipping, if desired.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- They're an absolute lifesaver for entertaining, taking the stress out of last-minute prep.
- This recipe consistently disappears faster than any other appetizer on the table, proving its universal appeal.
02 -
- Overmixing the meat mixture is the arch-nemesis of tender meatballs; always mix just until combined.
- A little trick I swear by: dampening your hands makes shaping the meatballs a breeze and keeps things much cleaner.
03 -
- For future meal prep ease, double the recipe and freeze half the cooked meatballs before glazing; they reheat beautifully in the sauce.
- If you're feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper in the meat mixture or a spicier BBQ sauce can add a delightful kick.