Name: Homemade BBQ Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 eggs; 1 cup vodka; ½ cup water; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp dried minced onion flakes; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 3 lbs Ground Beef; 2 lbs ground turkey; 15 oz Bread crumbs; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 14.25 oz tomato puree; 18 oz barbeque sauce; 8 oz crushed pineapple; 1 cup brown sugar; 14 oz ketchup

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these homemade bbq meatballs. Juicy and flavorful, these meatballs are simmered in a rich sauce bursting with a blend of tomatoes, barbecue sauce, and a hint of pineapple sweetness. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe combines ground beef and turkey for a delightful texture and taste.

Photos of Homemade BBQ Meatballs Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to make a special trip to the supermarket for a couple of items. Vodka is not typically found in a kitchen cabinet unless you stock it for cocktails, and crushed pineapple adds a sweet twist that might not be in your usual grocery list. Ensure you check the canned fruit aisle for the pineapple and the liquor section for the vodka.

Ingredients for Homemade Bbq Meatballs Recipe

Eggs: These help bind the meatballs together, providing structure and moisture.

Vodka: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the meatballs and sauce, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the mixture.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor that enhances the meatiness of the dish.

Dried minced onion flakes: Provides a burst of onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic depth.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the recipe.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and flavor complexity.

Ground beef: Provides the primary meaty texture and flavor.

Ground turkey: Adds a leaner protein alternative to complement the beef.

Bread crumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture and adds structure.

Crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the rich, savory sauce.

Tomato puree: Adds depth and smoothness to the sauce.

Barbeque sauce: Provides the signature smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor.

Crushed pineapple: Introduces a sweet and tangy note that balances the savory ingredients.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.

Ketchup: Adds a tangy, sweet tomato flavor to the sauce.

One reader, Angela Rousseau says:

These homemade BBQ meatballs are a hit! The blend of beef and turkey makes them juicy, and the sauce is perfectly tangy and sweet. The addition of pineapple is a game-changer. My family couldn't get enough!

Angela Rousseau

Techniques Required for Making Homemade BBQ Meatballs

How to shape meatballs: Form the meat mixture into evenly sized balls using your hands or a scoop. How to cook meatballs in a skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. How to simmer sauce: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it cook gently over low heat for an extended period.

How To Make Homemade BBQ Meatballs

Skip the store-bought meatballs and whip up your own flavorful BBQ meatballs at home! It’s rich, savory, and is made with simple and tasteful ingredients.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4eggs,beaten
1cupvodka,divided
½cupwater
1tbspWorcestershire sauce
2tbspdried minced onion flakes,plus more to taste
1tspgarlic powder,plus more to taste
½tspsalt,plus more to taste
½tspground black pepper,plus more to taste
3lbsground beef
2lbsground turkey
15ozbread crumbs,1 package, Italian seasoned
28ozcrushed tomatoes,2 cans
14.25oztomato puree,2 cans
18ozbarbeque sauce,1 bottle, hickory smoke flavored
8ozcrushed pineapple,1 can
1cupbrown sugar
14ozketchup,1 bottle

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, ½ cup of vodka and Worcestershire sauce.
Season with 2 tablespoons of onion flakes, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Mix in the ground beef, ground turkey and bread crumbs.
Shape into meatballs, and set aside.
In a very large pot over medium heat, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, barbeque sauce, pineapple, brown sugar, ketchup, and ½ cup of vodka.
Season to taste with onion flakes, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer.
Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat.
Cook the meatballs until evenly brown on all sides.
Carefully place the meatballs into the sauce, then simmer for at least 1 hour.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 319.97kcal
Fat: 12.93g
Saturated Fat: 4.43g
Trans Fat: 0.57g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.38g
Carbohydrates: 29.72g
Fiber: 1.73g
Sugar: 16.65g
Protein: 17.35g
Cholesterol: 74.40mg
Sodium: 535.63mg
Calcium: 70.36mg
Potassium: 445.44mg
Iron: 2.77mg
Vitamin A: 27.00µg
Vitamin C: 8.06mg

How To Make Homemade BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Get out your biggest pot! This recipes makes tons of yummy bbq meatballs – perfect for a big gathering. I always get lots of requests for this one.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4eggs,beaten
½ cup vodka
½ cup water
1tablespoonWorcestershire sauce
2tablespoonsdried minced onion flakes
1teaspoongarlic powder, or to taste
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
3poundsGround Beef
2poundsground turkey
1(15ounce) package Italian seasoned bread crumbs
2(28ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
2(14.25ounce) cans tomato puree
1(18ounce) bottle hickory smoke flavored barbeque sauce
1(8ounce) can crushed pineapple
1cupbrown sugar
1(14ounce) bottle ketchup
½ cup vodka
2tablespoonsdried minced onion flakes
1teaspoongarlic powder, or to taste
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine eggs, 1/2 cup vodka and Worcestershire sauce. Season with 2 tablespoons onion flakes, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix in ground beef, ground turkey and bread crumbs. Shape into meatballs, and set aside.
In a very large pot over medium heat, Combine crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, barbeque sauce, pineapple, brown sugar, ketchup, and 1/2 cup vodka. Season to taste with onion flakes, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer.
Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs until evenly brown on all sides. Carefully place into sauce, and simmer for at least an hour.

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your BBQ Meatballs

To ensure your meatballs hold together well and have a uniform texture, mix the ground beef and ground turkey with the other ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Additionally, chilling the mixture for about 30 minutes before shaping can help them maintain their shape during cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making BBQ Meatballs

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix all dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately the night before.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix ground meats and breadcrumbs using a food processor to save time.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the skillet while you shape the meatballs to cut down on waiting time.

Simmer sauce while cooking meatballs: Begin simmering the sauce as you brown the meatballs to streamline the process.

Batch cook: Cook meatballs in batches to ensure even browning and faster cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade BBQ Meatballs Recipe

eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This acts as a binding agent similar to eggs.
vodka - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Use an equal amount of apple cider vinegar to add acidity without the alcohol content.
water - Substitute with beef broth: Adds more flavor to the meatballs compared to plain water.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and a splash of lemon juice: Provides a similar umami flavor with a hint of tanginess.
dried minced onion flakes - Substitute with fresh minced onion: Use 1 tablespoon of fresh minced onion for every tablespoon of dried onion flakes for a fresher taste.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Use 1 clove of fresh minced garlic for every 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds saltiness along with additional umami flavor.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
ground beef - Substitute with ground pork: Offers a similar texture and fat content, making it a good alternative.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Similar in texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar texture and binding quality.
crushed tomatoes - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Provides a similar texture and flavor, though you may need to blend them slightly.
tomato puree - Substitute with tomato paste and water: Mix equal parts tomato paste and water to achieve a similar consistency and flavor.
barbeque sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Offers a sweet and tangy flavor similar to barbeque sauce.
crushed pineapple - Substitute with pineapple juice: Use an equal amount of pineapple juice to add the same sweetness and acidity.
brown sugar - Substitute with white sugar and molasses: Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses for each cup of brown sugar.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce and sugar: Mix tomato sauce with a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and tanginess of ketchup.

Presenting Your Delicious BBQ Meatballs

Serve smaller portion sizes: Form the meatballs into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure a refined presentation. This allows for a more elegant and manageable dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Plate with precision: Arrange the meatballs in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, leaving space between each one to highlight their individual appeal.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the bbq sauce artfully over the meatballs, ensuring each one is lightly coated but not drowning in sauce. Use a squeeze bottle for precision.
Add texture: Sprinkle a small amount of crushed pineapple on top of the meatballs to provide a contrasting texture and a burst of sweetness.
Highlight ingredients: Place a small mound of caramelized onions or grilled pineapple rings beside the meatballs to showcase the key ingredients used in the recipe.
Balance the plate: Include a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta to balance the richness of the bbq meatballs and provide a comforting base.
Use elegant dishware: Serve the dish on high-quality, minimalist plates to let the colors and textures of the meatballs and sauce stand out.
Finish with a touch of luxury: Add a light sprinkle of microgreens or a few drops of truffle oil to elevate the dish to a Michelin-star level.
Serve with finesse: Present the dish with a clean, polished look, ensuring no smudges or spills on the plate, and serve with confidence and a smile.

Essential Tools for Making BBQ Meatballs at Home

Large mixing bowl: To combine the eggs, vodka, and Worcestershire sauce with the seasonings and meat mixture.
Measuring cups: To measure out the vodka, water, bread crumbs, and other liquid ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the Worcestershire sauce, onion flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Large pot: To cook and simmer the sauce with crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, barbeque sauce, pineapple, brown sugar, and ketchup.
Heavy skillet: To brown the meatballs evenly on all sides before adding them to the sauce.
Wooden spoon: To stir the sauce and ensure it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
Tongs: To carefully place the browned meatballs into the simmering sauce.
Whisk: To mix the eggs, vodka, and Worcestershire sauce smoothly.
Baking sheet: To set aside the shaped meatballs before cooking them in the skillet.
Knife: To finely chop any additional ingredients if needed.
Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Can opener: To open cans of crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, and pineapple.
Spatula: To help shape and handle the meatballs.
Ladle: To serve the meatballs and sauce once they are cooked.

Storing and Freezing Homemade BBQ Meatballs

Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the meatballs:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cooled meatballs in a single layer.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen meatballs:
- Remove the desired number of meatballs from the freezer and place them in a covered dish.
- Thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave them on the defrost setting until they are no longer frozen.
- Reheat the meatballs in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until they are heated through.
- If desired, add the reheated meatballs to a fresh batch of barbecue sauce and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Alternatively, you can freeze the meatballs in the barbecue sauce:
- Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely.
- Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the meatballs and sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a covered dish in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover BBQ Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the meatballs from drying out.
Reheat the meatballs in a slow cooker or crockpot. Place the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. This method is ideal for keeping the meatballs warm for an extended period, such as at a party or potluck.
For a quick reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the meatballs are heated through.
Reheat the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. This method allows you to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed by adding a little water or broth.
If you have a lot of leftover meatballs, consider freezing them for later use. Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight, then use one of the above methods to heat them through.

Random Fact About BBQ Meatballs

A unique aspect of this homemade bbq meatballs recipe is the inclusion of vodka in both the meatball mixture and the sauce. The vodka helps to tenderize the meatballs and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Is Making BBQ Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade bbq meatballs recipe is moderately cost-effective. The combination of ground beef and ground turkey provides a hearty protein base, while pantry staples like bread crumbs, ketchup, and brown sugar keep costs down. However, the inclusion of vodka and crushed pineapple adds to the expense. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $35 USD.

Are Homemade BBQ Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?

This homemade BBQ meatballs recipe, while undoubtedly delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High calorie content due to the combination of ground beef, ground turkey, and breadcrumbs
Excessive sodium from the salt, ketchup, barbeque sauce, and Worcestershire sauce
Added sugars from the brown sugar, ketchup, and barbeque sauce
Saturated fat content from the ground beef

However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of ground turkey, which is leaner than beef, and the inclusion of crushed tomatoes and tomato puree, which provide some vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the ground beef with additional ground turkey or lean ground chicken
Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or oats instead of regular breadcrumbs to increase fiber content
Reduce the amount of brown sugar, ketchup, and barbeque sauce to lower the added sugar content
Opt for low-sodium versions of the canned ingredients, such as crushed tomatoes and tomato puree
Add more vegetables to the sauce, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables and a whole grain option, like brown rice or quinoa, to create a more balanced meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Delectable BBQ Meatball Recipe

This recipe offers a unique twist with the inclusion of vodka, which can add an interesting depth of flavor. However, the amount of vodka seems excessive and might overpower the dish. Consider reducing it or omitting it altogether. The combination of ground beef and turkey provides a balanced texture, while the pineapple adds a pleasant sweetness. The sauce is rich and flavorful, but the high sugar content from the brown sugar and ketchup could be toned down. Overall, it's a hearty and flavorful dish, but some adjustments could enhance its balance and complexity.

Enhance Your Homemade BBQ Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes, elevated with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the savory and slightly sweet notes of your homemade BBQ meatballs.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness to your meal with grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The slight char from the grill enhances the natural flavors, making it a delightful companion to your meatballs.

Sweet Cornbread Muffins: Sweet Cornbread Muffins: These sweet cornbread muffins are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Their golden crust and fluffy interior will soak up the delicious BBQ sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors with every bite.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Elevate your vegetable game with crispy Brussels sprouts tossed with crispy bacon. The smoky, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter sprouts, adding a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the tender meatballs.

Apple and Cabbage Slaw: Apple and Cabbage Slaw: Refresh your palate with a vibrant apple and cabbage slaw. The crisp cabbage and sweet, juicy apples provide a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness, balancing the rich flavors of your BBQ meatballs.

Alternative Recipes Similar to BBQ Meatballs

Sweet And Spicy Meatballs: For those who love a kick, these meatballs are simmered in a tantalizing blend of honey, sriracha, and soy sauce. Perfect for a game day snack or a family dinner.

Italian Style Meatballs: Transport your taste buds to Italy with these meatballs made with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and marinara sauce. Serve over a bed of spaghetti for a classic meal.

Swedish Meatballs: These meatballs are smothered in a creamy gravy made from beef broth, heavy cream, and a hint of nutmeg. Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting dish.

Teriyaki Meatballs: Infused with ginger, garlic, and a sweet teriyaki glaze, these meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors. Pair with steamed rice and broccoli for a balanced meal.

Greek Meatballs: These meatballs are packed with feta cheese, oregano, and mint, then served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Ideal for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your BBQ Meatballs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs perfectly with a rich and creamy cheese filling. Add a touch of garlic and herbs to elevate the taste. Bake until golden and bubbly for an irresistible appetizer.

Shrimp Cocktail: Shrimp Cocktail: Impress your guests with a classic shrimp cocktail. Serve chilled shrimp with a zesty cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a refreshing and elegant starter.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent Chocolate Lava Cake. Imagine a warm, gooey center of melted chocolate that flows out as you cut into the cake. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious treat. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries for an added touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your guests with a classic Lemon Meringue Pie. This dessert features a buttery crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a fluffy meringue. The combination of the tart lemon filling and the sweet, airy meringue creates a perfect balance of flavors. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. For an extra touch, you can add a twist of lemon zest on top of the meringue. This pie is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a great centerpiece for any dessert table.

Why trust this Homemade BBQ Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef and ground turkey with a perfectly balanced barbecue sauce. The addition of crushed pineapple and brown sugar adds a delightful sweetness, while the vodka ensures the meatballs stay moist and tender. With a blend of crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, and ketchup, the sauce is both tangy and savory. This recipe has been meticulously crafted to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal that you can trust to impress your family and friends.

Want to share your own meatball recipes or discuss tips and techniques for making the perfect BBQ meatballs? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

How can I make the meatballs hold together better?

If your meatballs are falling apart, try adding a bit more bread crumbs or an extra egg to the mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground pork, chicken, or even more ground beef if you prefer.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for vodka in this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the vodka with an equal amount of water or beef broth. It won't have the exact same flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat the sauce and add the meatballs when you're ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy them again.