BBQ Jelly Meatballs

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Discover the blend of sweet and savory with our BBQ Jelly Meatballs. Easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time10

Cook Time35

Total Time45

Course: Appetizer, Dinner

Keyword: BBQ Jelly Meatballs

Servings:

Calories: 376kcal

Ingredients

45 Frozen Meatballs
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup apricot jelly
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F.
Bake the Meatballs: Spray a 9X13” baking dish with non-stick spray and add the frozen meatballs to the pan. Make sure they are spaced out evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes, checking about half way to turn them if the tops are browning.
Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking combine 1 cup of BBQ sauce and 1/2 cup of apricot jelly. Stir them together until they are well mixed. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Mix Meatballs with Sauce: After the meatballs are cooked, pour the sauce into the pan and gently toss together until fully coated.
Turn up the Heat: Turn the oven heat up to 425°F and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
Serving: Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served as an appetizer or alongside your favorite side dishes for a main course.

Notes

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store BBQ Jelly Meatballs:

BBQ Jelly Meatballs are just as delicious the next day! To store, let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

How to Reheat BBQ Jelly Meatballs:

For reheating, simply microwave them for a minute or two, or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. They retain their flavor and juiciness, making them a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers.

Helpful Tips & Substitutions

Can This Be Frozen?

Absolutely! These meatballs freeze beautifully. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes in the oven.

Can This Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, and it's a great time-saver! Prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance, and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply coat the meatballs in the sauce and bake. This makes your preparation stress-free, especially for events or busy weeknights.

Substitutions & Variations

Jelly Variations: Not a fan of apricot? Try grape, raspberry, or even orange marmalade.
Meatball Variations: Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce – from smoky to sweet to spicy.

Helpful Cooking Notes

Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking.
Basting: Halfway through baking, baste the meatballs with the sauce for extra flavor.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a little water or chicken broth.
Serving Suggestion: Garnish with parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

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