Are you dreaming of a delicious, effortless dinner that's guaranteed to impress? Look no further! This slow cooker BBQ meatball recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. These tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce are a true crowd-pleaser, and the best part? Minimal effort is required! Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this easy recipe that delivers maximum flavor. It's the ultimate in quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, all rolled into one incredible dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use a blend of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, but adds richness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (18-ounce) bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. For even cooking, try to make them all roughly the same size.
- Place the meatballs in your slow cooker.
Cooking in the Crockpot:
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
Serve these delectable BBQ meatballs on hamburger buns, with coleslaw, or alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. They're also fantastic as an appetizer or game-day snack!
Here are a few delicious variations to try:
- Spicy BBQ Meatballs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture for an extra kick.
- Sweet and Smoky: Use a BBQ sauce with a sweeter profile, and add a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Italian BBQ Meatballs: Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and basil, and use a slightly sweeter BBQ sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
- Use a good quality BBQ sauce: The flavor of the BBQ sauce will greatly impact the overall taste of the meatballs, so choose one you enjoy.
- Adjust cooking time as needed: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your meatballs and your slow cooker. Check the internal temperature to ensure they are cooked through.
- Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by removing some of the meatballs and simmering the sauce uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, based on 12 meatballs):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe offers a satisfying and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender, flavorful meatballs and a flavorful sauce. Enjoy this easy, healthy, and delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!