Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or prepping for a party, Oven-Baked BBQ Meatballs are a surefire hit. These juicy, savory meatballs are oven-baked to perfection and tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky glaze. They’re easy to make, kid-friendly, and versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course.
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what each ingredient brings to the table:
Ground Beef (1 lb)
This is the base of your meatballs. Opt for 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can be used but may yield drier meatballs unless compensated with moisture from other ingredients.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup)
Breadcrumbs help bind the meat mixture and retain moisture, preventing the meatballs from becoming tough or falling apart. You can use:
Plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
Panko for a lighter texture
Gluten-free crumbs if needed
Milk (1/4 cup)
Combining milk with breadcrumbs creates a paste known as a panade, which adds tenderness and moisture to the meatballs.
Egg (1)
Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together and give structure.
Onion, Finely Diced (1/4 cup)
Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. Be sure to dice it finely so it blends into the meatballs without creating lumps or affecting texture.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp)
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