Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
These BBQ meatballs are a flavorful and easy appetizer or main dish, perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. The tangy, smoky sauce coats tender meatballs, creating a satisfying bite every time.
Ingredients
- ½ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- 32 oz. fully-cooked meatballs (store bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors.
- Step 2: Add the fully-cooked meatballs to the skillet. Stir often as the sauce returns to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Variations
- Use homemade meatballs for a fresher taste or choose your favorite store-bought brand for convenience.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicy kick to the sauce.
- Serve these meatballs on slider buns for easy party sliders.
- Leftover meatballs can be added to pasta or rice for a quick meal.
Storage
Store leftover BBQ meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with frozen meatballs?
Yes, simply thaw the meatballs before adding them to the sauce to ensure even heating and the best texture.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently and then add the meatballs to warm through before serving.
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Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings (assuming 8 meatballs per serving) 1x
Description
These BBQ Meatballs feature fully cooked meatballs simmered in a tangy and slightly sweet homemade barbecue sauce made from ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. This quick and easy skillet recipe is perfect as a party appetizer or a flavorful main dish that can be served with sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
Ingredients
BBQ Sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
Meatballs
- 32 oz. fully-cooked meatballs (store bought or homemade)*
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a large skillet, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and to fully dissolve the sugar.
- Add Meatballs: Once the sauce is boiling, add the fully-cooked meatballs to the skillet. Stir frequently as the sauce returns to a gentle boil to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Simmer to Finish: Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and that the meatballs are heated through while allowing the sauce to thicken and intensify in flavor.
Notes
- You can use store-bought fully-cooked meatballs or make your own ahead of time.
- Simmering uncovered helps the sauce to thicken—if you prefer a thinner sauce, simmer covered or reduce cooking time.
- Serve these BBQ meatballs with toothpicks as a party appetizer or over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a main meal.
- To add smoky depth, try adding a few dashes of liquid smoke or a pinch of cayenne if you like spice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: BBQ meatballs, quick meatball recipe, party appetizers, skillet meatballs, homemade BBQ sauce
