Delicious BBQ Meatballs in a Crockpot: A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to weeknight meals, simplicity and flavor are key. That’s where these BBQ meatballs come in! Made effortlessly in a crockpot, this recipe brings together tender, juicy meatballs coated in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy families, you can prepare it in the morning and come home to a mouthwatering dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this fantastic dish!
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
4 hours
Total Time
4 hours 10 minutes
Serving
Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, mix the BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, serve the BBQ meatballs on their own, over rice, or in slider buns for a fun twist!
Tips for Perfect BBQ Meatballs
To elevate your BBQ meatballs, consider these tips:
- Use a mix of meats: For added flavor and richness, you can use a combination of ground beef and pork.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the meat mixture, like onion powder or Italian seasoning.
- Adjust the sauce: If you prefer a spicier kick, add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce.
- Make it a meal: Pair the meatballs with sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete BBQ feast.
Serving Suggestions
These BBQ meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
- Meatball Sliders: Place the meatballs on slider buns topped with extra BBQ sauce and pickles for a tasty sandwich.
- Rice Bowl: Serve the meatballs over steamed rice or quinoa, drizzled with additional BBQ sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Pasta Dish: Toss the meatballs with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of cheese for an Italian-inspired dish.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
These BBQ meatballs are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight, they can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a go-to recipe for any family. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have more time to spend with your loved ones. Try this recipe today and bring some deliciousness to your dinner table!
