Irresistible BBQ Meatballs with a Creamy Mayo Dip

These BBQ meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce. Served alongside a rich and creamy mayo dip, they make the perfect appetizer or main dish for gatherings, game nights, or family dinners. Whether baked or pan-seared, these meatballs offer a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
• Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, use different meats, or swap the sauce.
• Great for meal prep – Make ahead and reheat easily.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)

For the Creamy Mayo Dip:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat if pan-frying.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased skillet.

2. Cook the Meatballs

• Baking method: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
• Pan-frying method: Heat oil in a skillet and cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked.

3. Coat with BBQ Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine barbecue sauce, honey (or brown sugar), apple cider vinegar, and chili powder. Simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Add cooked meatballs to the saucepan and toss until evenly coated.

4. Make the Mayo Dip

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Transfer BBQ meatballs to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley or sesame seeds.
• Serve with the creamy mayo dip on the side.

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Variations

• Spicy kick: Add sriracha or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce.
• Cheesy twist: Stuff each meatball with a cube of cheese before cooking.
• Different meats: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
• Honey mustard dip: Replace the mayo dip with a honey mustard sauce for a tangy contrast.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6 (makes about 20–24 meatballs)
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

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FAQs

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought frozen meatballs?

Yes! Just cook them according to package instructions and toss them in the BBQ sauce.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version.

Can I cook the meatballs in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I make the mayo dip lighter?

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo for a healthier version.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Form the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

Serve them with rice, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

How do I keep meatballs from drying out?

Don’t overmix the meat and include milk and breadcrumbs to keep them moist.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, but add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.

How do I make the BBQ sauce less sweet?

Reduce the honey or brown sugar and add more vinegar for a tangier taste.

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Conclusion

These BBQ meatballs with creamy mayo dip are a must-try for any occasion. They’re juicy, flavorful, and coated in a rich, tangy sauce, perfectly paired with a cool, creamy dip. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal!

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