These Bourbon Honey BBQ Meatballs are sweet, tangy, and wonderfully juicy. Made with ground meat and coated in a tasty bourbon honey sauce, they’re perfect for any gathering!
Who can resist meatballs, right? I love serving these at parties! They disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!” Trust me, you’ll find yourself going back for more. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While ground beef is commonly used, a mix of beef and pork can add extra flavor and moisture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but keep in mind that they may dry out faster.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are great for binding. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oat flour. For a healthier twist, use whole grain breadcrumbs.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, but you can easily make your own. Adjust the sweetness or smokiness according to your taste. If you want a lower-sugar option, look for sugar-free BBQ sauces.
Bourbon: If bourbon isn’t your thing, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar for tang or use a non-alcoholic bourbon-flavor extract. Just adjust the quantities based on your taste to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do You Ensure Meatballs Stay Juicy and Tender?
Getting meatballs just right can be tricky! Here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; mix until just combined to maintain tenderness.
- Shape the meatballs gently; compressing them too much will make them dense.
- Baking them at a high temperature helps them cook through without drying out.
- Tossing them in the sauce post-baking infuses flavor without losing moisture.
How to Make Bourbon Honey BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Bourbon Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal or a tasty appetizer for a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet with some space in between each meatball for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
5. Make the Bourbon Honey BBQ Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a medium saucepan. Combine the BBQ sauce, honey, bourbon, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat over medium heat and bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the BBQ sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they’re well coated.
7. Warm Everything Together:
Turn the heat to low and warm everything together for another 5 minutes. This allows the meatballs to soak up all those delicious flavors from the sauce!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bourbon Honey BBQ Meatballs hot. You can garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color if you like. They make a fantastic appetizer or can be served with sides like rice or coleslaw for a hearty meal.
Enjoy your delicious, saucy Bourbon Honey BBQ Meatballs! They’ll be a hit for sure!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then bake and combine them just before serving for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
If you don’t have bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor or a non-alcoholic whiskey-flavored extract. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences!
