Honey BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients:
* 2 pounds ground pork
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
* 1 cup barbecue sauce
* 1/3 cup honey
* 1/3 cup grape jelly
Instructions:
Pre-heat oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, combine the, ground pork, beaten egg, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix together until just combined.
In a medium bowl, combine the milk, breadcrumbs, garlic, and onion.
Add milk mixture to the meat mixture being careful not to overwork ingredients.
Form into desired size meatballs, greasing hands before starting to keep the meat from sticking, and place in a greased 8×8 pan.
Place in preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes (or until the meatballs are crisp on the outside).
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, and grape jelly.
Pour the sauce over the cooked meatballs. Cover the dish with foil and return it to the oven to bake for an additional 15 minutes (or until the meatballs are cooked through – 165°F on a meat thermometer).
Nutrition Information:
Yields: 16 | Serving Size: 1 Meatball
Calories: 180 calories | Total Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 400mg | Total Carbohydrates: 14g | Dietary Fiber: 0.5g | Sugars: 9g | Protein: 8g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork with ground beef, turkey, or chicken based on your preference.
Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the meatballs in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking.
When ready to serve, just make the sauce, pour it over the meatballs, and bake as directed.
Are there any alternatives to grape jelly in the sauce?
Yes, if you don’t have grape jelly, you can use other fruit preserves like apricot or orange marmalade as a delicious alternative.
Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
Absolutely. After baking, let the meatballs cool, and then freeze them in an airtight container.
Thaw before reheating in the oven with the sauce.
What side dishes pair well with these Honey BBQ Meatballs?
These meatballs go well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even as a sandwich filling.
Add a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a balanced meal.
Is there a substitute for grape jelly in the sauce?
Yes, if grape jelly is unavailable, other fruit preserves like apricot, peach, or orange marmalade can be used as a delicious alternative.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid.
Thaw before baking and adding the sauce.
What sides pair well with Honey BBQ Meatballs?
These meatballs go well with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling for sandwiches.
Consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the barbecue sauce?
Certainly! If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the barbecue sauce mixture.
Adjust the quantity to your desired level of heat.