Pin Tender beef meatballs glazed in smoky BBQ sauce served over creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting family-friendly meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
I remember making these BBQ meatballs and mashed potatoes for my family on a chilly evening, and everyone reached for seconds. The combination of creamy potatoes and tangy meatballs always brings smiles around our table.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 500 g, use fresh beef for tender meatballs
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup, adds texture and helps bind the mixture
- Egg: 1 large, provides structure
- Milk: 1/4 cup, softens the meatballs
- Onion: 1 small, finely diced for flavor
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced for a savory kick
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, to enhance flavor
- Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp, for subtle heat
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tbsp chopped (optional) for brightness
- BBQ Sauce: 1 cup, use your favorite store-bought or homemade variety
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp, boost tanginess
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tbsp, for depth
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp, provides smoky notes
- Potatoes: 1 kg (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed for mashing
- Unsalted Butter: 60 g, added richness
- Milk (warm): 1/2 cup for smooth mashed potatoes
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Garnish: Chopped chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
- Shape Meatballs:
- Form the mixture into 16 meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Meatballs:
- Bake meatballs for 15 minutes.
- Prepare BBQ Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together BBQ sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
- Glaze Meatballs:
- Remove meatballs from oven, transfer to an oven-safe casserole dish, and pour BBQ sauce mixture over to coat. Toss gently.
- Final Bake:
- Return meatballs to oven and bake for 10 minutes until glazed and cooked through.
- Cook Potatoes:
- While meatballs bake, place potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and boil for 15-18 minutes until fork-tender.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain potatoes, return to pot, add butter and warm milk, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
- Serve:
- Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with BBQ meatballs, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish as desired.
Pin This recipe always brings back memories of cozy gatherings, where everyone shares stories over plates piled high with comfort food. It's a staple for family celebrations and weeknight dinners alike.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowls are needed for meatball prep along with a baking sheet and parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use a potato masher for smooth potatoes and a whisk for a glossy BBQ sauce.
Allergen Information
This meal contains eggs, dairy, gluten from breadcrumbs, and potential allergens in BBQ sauce such as soy and mustard. Always check ingredient labels for safe substitutions.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 540 calories, 21 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein making this dish hearty and satisfying.
Pin Serve immediately for best flavor. This dish is always a hit and brings a warm, homey vibe to any meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep meatballs tender and juicy?
Mix the beef with breadcrumbs and milk to retain moisture, avoid overworking the mixture, and bake rather than frying to keep meatballs tender.
- → What type of potatoes work best for mashing?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal as they yield a creamy, smooth texture when mashed.
- → Can I adjust the BBQ sauce for spiciness?
Yes, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika increases heat and enhances smoky flavor.
- → How long should potatoes be boiled to become tender?
Boil peeled and cubed potatoes for about 15–18 minutes until a fork easily pierces them.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Chopped fresh chives or parsley add a bright, fresh note as garnish.
- → Can ground poultry be used instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can substitute beef for a lighter alternative, adjusting cooking time accordingly.