Description

Juicy, sticky, and flavorful honey BBQ meatballs made with a mix of beef and pork. These game-day appetizers are easy to make, perfect for crowds, and feature a glossy glaze that keeps them moist and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
0.5 lb ground pork
1/4 cup whole milk
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (smoky style)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
Mix with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix to avoid tough meatballs.
Roll the mixture into 24-30 uniform meatballs (approx. 1.5 tablespoons each) and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Bake for 15-18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
While meatballs bake, combine honey and BBQ sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and warm.
Remove meatballs from the oven and pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over them.
Toss gently to coat evenly, then return to the oven for 2-3 minutes to set the glaze.
Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to ensure tenderness. Use 80/20 beef for juiciness. The honey glaze should be added after baking to prevent burning. For make-ahead, freeze raw meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1-2 meatballs per se
Calories: 120
Sugar: 5
Sodium: 250
Fat: 7
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 6
Protein: 8

Keywords: honey BBQ meatballs, game day snacks, easy appetizer, make ahead meatballs, beef and pork meatballs, party food