How to Make BBQ Meatballs in Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
BBQ meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that can be prepared in a variety of ways. While some people prefer to cook them on the grill or in a slow cooker, making BBQ meatballs in the oven is a convenient and healthier alternative. In this article, we’ll show you how to make BBQ meatballs in oven that are tender, flavorful, and bursting with BBQ goodness.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make BBQ meatballs in oven:
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination of the two)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make it tough and dense.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Use your hands to shape the meat mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. After 10 minutes of baking, brush the meatballs with olive oil and BBQ sauce. This will help add extra flavor and moisture to the meatballs.
Step 4: Finish with BBQ Sauce
Remove the meatballs from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the remaining BBQ sauce over the meatballs and toss them to coat. This will help the meatballs absorb all the flavors of the BBQ sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
BBQ meatballs are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even as a topping for salads or sandwiches. Serve them warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips and Variations
- To make meatballs ahead of time, prepare the meat mixture and shape the meatballs as instructed. Refrigerate the meatballs for up to 24 hours before baking.
- To add extra flavor to your meatballs, try adding some chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- To make mini meatballs, simply reduce the size of the meat mixture and shape the meatballs into smaller balls.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (4-5 meatballs):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Conclusion
Making BBQ meatballs in oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this popular snack or appetizer. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create tender, flavorful meatballs that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a meatball novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of BBQ meatballs!