BBQ season is finally here, and I can’t wait to fire up the grill with my favorite twist on a classic dish: BBQ meatballs on skewers. There’s something incredibly satisfying about threading juicy meatballs onto skewers, grilling them to perfection, and pairing them with that smoky barbecue flavor we all love.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or looking for a delicious meal to enjoy with family, these meatball skewers are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and offer a fun alternative to traditional grilling options. Let me share with you how to create this mouthwatering treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Gather the necessary ingredients to create flavorful BBQ meatballs on skewers. Each component ensures the perfect balance of taste and texture.
Meat Selection
- Ground beef: 1 pound, preferably 80% lean for juiciness
- Ground pork: 0.5 pounds, adds richness
- Ground turkey: 0.5 pounds, enhances moisture
Seasonings and Marinades
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, provides depth
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon, adds sweetness
- Salt: 0.5 teaspoon, balances flavors
- Black pepper: 0.5 teaspoon, offers mild heat
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon, introduces herby notes
- Barbecue sauce: 1 cup, serves as marinade and glaze
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons, supplies umami
- Honey: 1 tablespoon, delivers sweetness
Preparation
Getting started with BBQ meatballs on skewers is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure they’re flavorful and perfectly cooked.
Making the Meatballs
I combine 1 pound of ground beef, 0.5 pounds of ground pork, and 0.5 pounds of ground turkey in a large bowl. I add 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning. Then, I pour in 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons honey for added flavor. I mix all ingredients thoroughly until well blended. Next, I shape the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs to ensure even cooking.
Assembling on Skewers
I thread the meatballs onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, placing them closely together but not touching to allow heat circulation. Optionally, I alternate meatballs with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for added taste and presentation. Once skewered, I preheat the grill to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on the grill surface.
Cooking Techniques
I use specific techniques to ensure my BBQ meatballs on skewers are perfectly cooked and full of flavor.
Grilling Tips
- Preheat the Grill: I set the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) for consistent cooking.
- Oil the Grates: I lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Use Direct and Indirect Heat: I sear the meatballs over direct heat, then move them to indirect heat to cook through without burning.
- Monitor Flare-Ups: I watch for flare-ups and adjust the skewers to avoid excessive charring.
- Apply Sauce Last: I brush barbecue sauce on the meatballs during the final 5 minutes to caramelize without burning.
Ensuring Even Cooking
- Uniform Meatball Size: I shape all meatballs to a consistent 1-inch diameter for even cooking.
- Proper Skewer Spacing: I space the skewers evenly on the grill to allow proper airflow and heat distribution.
- Rotate Skewers: I turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure all sides cook uniformly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: I check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe and thorough cooking.
- Alternate with Vegetables: I include vegetables of similar size on the skewers to ensure balanced cooking times.
Serving Suggestions
I love pairing BBQ meatballs on skewers with complementary sides and sauces that enhance their smoky flavor.
Side Dishes
- Grilled Vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a colorful accompaniment.
- Classic Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich meatballs.
- Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Offer a hearty, flavorful side that’s easy to prepare.
- Rice Pilaf: Provides a light, fluffy base that balances the meal.
- Cornbread: Serves as a sweet or savory addition, perfect for soaking up extra sauces.
Sauces and Dips
- Barbecue Sauce: Enhances the smoky taste with its rich, tangy flavor.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Introduces a sweet and spicy element to each bite.
- Garlic Aioli: Offers a creamy, garlicky dip that complements the meatballs.
- Honey Mustard: Combines sweetness and tanginess for a versatile dipping option.
- Teriyaki Glaze: Adds a savory, umami-rich layer to the skewers.
Conclusion
Trying out BBQ meatballs on skewers has truly transformed my grilling game. There’s something special about seeing those juicy meatballs sizzle on the grill bringing everyone together.
The balance of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a favorite at our backyard get-togethers. Plus grilling veggies alongside adds a vibrant touch that everyone loves.
I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try. It’s a delicious twist that’s sure to become a staple in your BBQ lineup
