If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that packs that smoky, tangy punch with every bite, this Barbecued Meatballs Recipe is calling your name. These tender, juicy meatballs are lovingly baked and then drenched in your favorite barbecue sauce, creating a saucy, flavorful dish that is perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Whether you serve them as appetizers or the star of your meal, the balance of rich meat, soft texture, and tangy glaze makes every mouthful unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a silver metal bowl filled with a mixture of raw ground meat and finely chopped light brown onions, showing a coarse texture with reddish and pale colors mixed together. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Barbecued Meatballs Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that homemade charm. From the fresh bread crumbs that lend the perfect texture to the rich ground beef and that irresistible splash of barbecue sauce, every element adds delicious harmony and color to the final dish.

2 pounds ground beef: The heart of the meatballs, providing juicy flavor and hearty texture.
1 ½ cups fresh bread crumbs: These keep the meatballs tender and ensure they hold together perfectly.
2 eggs: A natural binder that brings the ingredients together for easy shaping.
½ cup milk: Adds moisture, helping create a soft and juicy bite.
¼ cup chopped onion: Infuses a subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch.
1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors to make the dish truly pop.
1 (18 ounce) bottle barbecue sauce: The star glaze that coats the meatballs with tangy, smoky goodness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Barbecued Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, fresh bread crumbs, eggs, milk, chopped onion, and salt. Gently mix everything with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This careful mixing ensures your meatballs stay tender and not too dense once baked.

Step 2: Shape and Arrange the Meatballs

Next, shape the mixture into bite-sized meatballs, aiming for about 1 inch in diameter each. This size ensures quick, even cooking while keeping the meatballs tender inside. Place the meatballs evenly spaced in a 9×13-inch baking dish so that they bake uniformly without sticking together.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. They’ll start cooking through and develop a slightly browned exterior. This first bake sets the structure so the meatballs don’t fall apart when sauced.

Step 4: Add Barbecue Sauce and Continue Baking

Once the initial baking is done, pour the entire bottle of barbecue sauce over the meatballs, coating them generously. Return the dish to the oven for another 35 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken and caramelize around the meatballs, infusing them with that addictive barbecued flavor you crave.

How to Serve Barbecued Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

Add a lively pop of color and fresh contrast with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top just before serving. Thinly sliced green onions also add a crisp bite and mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the barbecue sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Barbecued meatballs pair wonderfully with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob. For a lighter twist, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or some grilled seasonal veggies to add freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Spoon the meatballs over fluffy cooked rice or even creamy polenta for a twist on comfort food. Alternatively, stack the sauced meatballs on toothpicks for a fun and easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This makes an easy grab-and-go meal for busy days ahead without losing any flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs with sauce for up to 3 months. Just transfer them into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover barbecued meatballs in the microwave or in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and prevent sticking. Covering the dish helps retain moisture so the meatballs stay tender and succulent.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful they cook slightly faster and can dry out, so keep an eye on the baking time and consider adding a little extra moisture with milk or sauce.

What type of bread crumbs work best?

Fresh bread crumbs give the best texture for tender meatballs. If you only have dried crumbs, soak them briefly in the milk before mixing to replicate that moisture and softness.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time before baking?

Yes, you can shape the meatballs and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save time on the day you’re serving and sometimes makes for even better flavor as the spices meld.

What other sauces can I try instead of barbecue?

While barbecue sauce is classic, you can experiment with sweet chili sauce, teriyaki glaze, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for a different flavor profile that still complements the meatballs wonderfully.

How do I keep the meatballs from sticking to the baking dish?

Lightly grease the baking dish with oil or line it with parchment paper before placing the meatballs. This simple step helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Barbecued Meatballs Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, endlessly flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I encourage you to whip up a batch soon and experience the joy of juicy meatballs bathed in tangy barbecue sauce. Your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!