When it's a game day, I want meatballs. They are my favorite game day treat and are so easy to prepare. But sometimes I like to make them with a bit of a twist. And what's more of a game day treat than BBQ Beer Meatballs?
how do meatballs become tough?
- They are overcooked
- They are made with too lean of a meat
- The meatballs were overmixed
- The meatballs didn't have enough breadcrumbs and milk
how to make bbq beer meatballs on the stove
To make the meatballs on the stovetop, combine frozen meatballs (yes we're cheating a bit here!) and sauce ingredients over medium heat, stirring on occasion. The alcohol will cook out of the beer. Cook for 20 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has thickened. Yup, it's as easy as that!
how to make bbq beer meatballs in a crockpot
The crockpot version of this appetizer is an easy change from the stovetop version. Dump all ingredients into your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This is a set it and forget it appetizer, which is perfect for when you still have some last minute cleaning and cooking. For even easier cleanup, use a liner in your crockpot.
which type of meatballs to use
I use "homestyle meatballs" in this recipe, which are a mild flavored meatball and a bit on the smaller size. If you can't find this style, an easy substitute are Swedish meatballs. I'd stay away from Italian meatballs due to their larger size and more robust flavor. You could also make your own meatballs, but for convenience and time, this recipe uses frozen meatballs.
What type of beer to use
Most types of beer can be used in this recipe. I tend to go for a lighter beer, like Blue Moon or Yuengling. I'd stay away from strong IPAs, fruit or coffee flavored beers and anything overly bitter to achieve the best results in the recipe.
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BBQ Beer Meatballs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Frozen Meatballs
- 1 Cup Ketchup
- ¾ Cup Brown Sugar
- ¼ Cup Onion Minced
- ¼ Tsp Garlic Powder
- Pepper
- 12 Oz Beer
- 1 Tbsp Cornstarch
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients into a large pan on medium heat and toss to coat. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally
- . Cook until meatballs have cooked through and sauce has thickened. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Marie-Charlotte Chatelain says
that sticky glaze looks amaaaazing and my hubby would love me especially much if I whip that up for him! anything bbq and beer will be a winner!
veenaazmanov says
Love your recipe. Sounds great for a party. I am drooling with the look of these flavorful BBQ Beer Meatballs.
Cyndy says
I love how easy yet completely delicious this recipe is because game day is all about fun! I love the flavor ~ I made mine in the crockpot and they were perfect.
Jo says
All I can say is these meatballs were amazing! We'll have it again for dinner tonight!
Pam says
Sounds wonderful and you've give us a lot of great tips, too! Thank you.