why make this recipe
BBQ Meatballs are easy and tasty. They cook slowly in the crockpot and stay juicy. This recipe uses simple ingredients and works for snacks or a meal. If you want a different sauce idea, try a sweet option like Christmas cranberry meatballs for a holiday feel.
introduction
This recipe makes soft meatballs in a rich BBQ sauce. You mix beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and seasonings, shape the meatballs, then cook them in the crockpot with BBQ sauce. The slow cook keeps flavor and makes the meatballs tender.
how to make BBQ Meatballs
Make the meatballs, put them in the crockpot, pour the sauce over them, and cook until done. Use low heat for longer, or high for faster cooking. Stir gently before serving so the sauce coats each meatball.
Ingredients :
1 pound ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 cup BBQ sauce
If you like a baked version, you might enjoy baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach as another easy option.
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, then shape into meatballs.
- Place meatballs in the crockpot.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve warm as an appetizer.
For a quick start, you can also use a frozen batch; see a simple note about crockpot frozen meatballs for ideas.
how to serve BBQ Meatballs
Serve warm from the crockpot. They work as an appetizer on toothpicks or as a main with rice, mashed potatoes, or rolls. For a different plate, pair them with a mild curry side like chickpea mushroom meatballs with creamy curry sauce to mix flavors.
how to store BBQ Meatballs
Let the meatballs cool to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer keep, freeze in a freezer container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make BBQ Meatballs
- Use a gentle mix to keep meatballs tender.
- Make meatballs the same size so they cook evenly.
- Brown a few meatballs in a pan if you want a crust before slow cooking.
- Check sauce level during cooking; add a little water if it gets too thick.
variation (if any)
- Add a little chopped onion or green onion to the meat mix.
- Use pork, turkey, or a mix of meats instead of all beef.
- Try different BBQ sauces: smoky, sweet, or spicy.
- Add a spoon of grape jelly to the sauce for a sweet glaze.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these instead of using a crockpot?
A: Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, then toss with BBQ sauce and bake 5 more minutes.
Q: Can I make meatballs ahead?
A: Yes. Shape and store raw meatballs in the fridge for a day or freeze for longer. Cook from frozen but add time.
Q: How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?
A: Do not overwork the meat. Use the egg and breadcrumbs to bind them. Chill for 10 minutes if they feel loose.
Q: Can I use store-bought frozen meatballs?
A: Yes. Put frozen meatballs in the crockpot and pour sauce over them, then cook until hot.
Conclusion
For a quick three-ingredient crockpot twist that inspired many BBQ meatball ideas, see Crockpot grape jelly & BBQ meatballs-only 3 ingredients! – I Heart ….
BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, then shape into meatballs.
- Place meatballs in the crockpot.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir gently before serving to ensure the sauce coats each meatball.