Print

Flavorful BBQ Meatball Skewers Recipe Easy Smoky Glaze for Summer

bbq meatball skewers - featured image
Print Recipe

These BBQ meatball skewers feature smoky, juicy meatballs with a tangy, sweet smoky glaze perfect for summer cookouts and quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean) or ground pork (or a mix)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (wooden soaked 30 minutes before grilling)
  • Cooking oil for grill or pan (vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and parsley if using. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Roll mixture into 1.5-inch diameter meatballs, about 16-18 total. Place on a plate or tray.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Set aside.
  4. Thread 3-4 meatballs per skewer, leaving space between each.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Grill skewers for about 10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes for even browning. During the last 3 minutes, brush skewers generously with smoky BBQ glaze each turn to caramelize.
  7. Check meatballs reach internal temperature of 160°F for beef/pork or 165°F for poultry.
  8. Remove skewers and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with extra glaze if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix meat to avoid tough meatballs. Soak wooden skewers 30 minutes before grilling. Apply glaze only in the last few minutes to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness. If grilling is unavailable, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ meatballs, meatball skewers, smoky glaze, summer recipe, grill recipe, easy meatballs, backyard BBQ

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/flavorful-bbq-meatball-skewers-recipe-easy-smoky-glaze-for-summer/